Contents
Description
Buckleya Graebneriana, also known as Buckleya or Buckley’s forestia, is a small deciduous shrub that belongs to the Santalaceae family. It is native to the Southeastern region of the United States and can grow up to 10 feet tall in the wild. The plant has a unique feature of producing bright red berries that add to its beauty.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Santalales |
| Family | Santalaceae |
| Genus | Buckleya |
Appearance
Buckleya Graebneriana has a slender stem with alternate leaves that are oval-shaped, finely toothed, and dark green in color. In the fall, the leaves turn yellow and orange before falling off. The plant produces small and inconspicuous flowers that bloom in early summer, followed by bright red berries in the fall. The berries are shiny, round, and about the size of a pea.
Care Guide
Buckleya Graebneriana requires moderate care and can be grown in various hardiness zones. Here are some tips on caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate acidic or alkaline soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate shade but may not produce as many berries.
- Hardiness Zones: Buckleya Graebneriana can be grown in hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Buckleya Graebneriana is relatively disease-resistant but can be affected by some pests and diseases. Here are some common ones to look out for:
- Scale insects: These insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and a sticky residue on the plant. Use insecticidal soap to treat the plant.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Buckleya Graebneriana is native to the Southeastern region of the United States, including Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina. It can be found in woodlands and on rocky slopes. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Buckleya Graebneriana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: What is the best time to prune Buckleya Graebneriana?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Q: Can Buckleya Graebneriana be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in the summer.
Q: How often should I fertilize Buckleya Graebneriana?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Buckleya Distichophylla
- Buckleya Lanceolata
- Buckleya Membranacea
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2011). Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Buckleya Graebneriana. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286478
- University of Connecticut. (n.d.). Buckleya Graebneriana. Retrieved from http://www.hort.uconn.edu/plants/detail.php?pid=81
