Contents
Description
Elliottia is a genus of flowering plants in the heath family, Ericaceae. It consists of two species, Elliottia racemosa and Elliottia pyroliflora, both of which are native to the southeastern United States. Elliottia racemosa is commonly known as the Georgia plume or American plumebush, while Elliottia pyroliflora is known as the pine barren gentian.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Elliottia |
Appearance
Elliottia racemosa is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can reach up to 20 feet tall. It has long, narrow leaves that are dark green and glossy. In the spring, it produces showy, pinkish-white flowers that are held in long, slender clusters. Elliottia pyroliflora is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 3 feet tall. It has lance-shaped leaves and produces small, white flowers with purple markings in the summer.
Care Guide
Elliottia plants prefer moist, well-drained soil that is acidic. They require regular watering, especially during periods of drought. Fertilize once a year in the spring with an acidic fertilizer. Elliottia plants prefer partial shade to full sun and are hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Elliottia plants are relatively pest and disease-free, but they may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. They may also be damaged by spider mites or scale insects.
Habitat
Elliottia racemosa is native to the southeastern United States, where it grows in wet pine savannas and bogs. Elliottia pyroliflora is also native to the southeastern United States, where it grows in pine barrens and sandhills.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Elliottia plants tolerate drought?
A: No, they require regular watering and do not tolerate drought well.
Q: How often should Elliottia plants be fertilized?
A: Once a year in the spring with an acidic fertilizer.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases of Elliottia plants?
A: Spider mites, scale insects, and root rot are the most common pests and diseases of Elliottia plants.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Elliottia plants?
A: Elliottia plants are hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9.
Related Plants
- Blueberries (Vaccinium spp.)
- Azaleas (Rhododendron spp.)
- Mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia)
- Heaths (Erica spp.)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Elliottia racemosa
- University of Florida IFAS Extension: Elliottia pyroliflora
- North Carolina State University Extension: Georgia Plume
