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Description
Cliffortia Atrata, also known as the black cliffortia, is an evergreen shrub native to South Africa. This drought-resistant plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide, making it a popular choice for landscaping in arid regions. The plant produces small pink flowers in late spring and early summer, adding a pop of color to its dark green foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Cliffortia |
Appearance
The Cliffortia Atrata has a compact, bushy growth habit with a rounded shape. The leaves are small, glossy, and dark green, with a leathery texture. The plant produces small pink flowers in late spring and early summer, which are followed by small, round fruit that turn from green to black as they mature. The bark is dark brown and peels off in thin strips.
Care Guide
The Cliffortia Atrata is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-draining soil and should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering. Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Cliffortia Atrata is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
The Cliffortia Atrata is native to South Africa and can be found growing in rocky areas, on hillsides, and in other dry, arid regions. The plant is well-adapted to drought conditions and can survive with little water.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Cliffortia Atrata?
A: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cliffortia Atrata?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Q: What kind of soil does Cliffortia Atrata prefer?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil.
Q: Does Cliffortia Atrata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces small pink flowers that attract pollinators.
Related Plants
- Cliffortia Arborea
- Cliffortia Ferruginea
- Cliffortia Linearifolia
- Cliffortia Ruscifolia
References
- “Cliffortia Atrata.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2021, http://pza.sanbi.org/cliffortia-atrata/.
- “Cliffortia Atrata.” Dave’s Garden, 2021, https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/59868/.
- “Cliffortia Atrata.” The Spruce, 2021, https://www.thespruce.com/cliffortia-atrata-growing-profile-5074638.
