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Description
Escallonia Rubra Var. Macrantha Crimson Spire is a stunning evergreen shrub with a compact habit and upright branching. This cultivar was developed in New Zealand and is a popular choice for gardeners due to its attractive foliage and showy flowers. The plant produces clusters of crimson-red flowers that bloom profusely in late spring and early summer. The flowers are highly fragrant and attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Grossulariaceae |
| Genus | Escallonia |
Appearance
Escallonia Rubra Var. Macrantha Crimson Spire typically grows to a height of 6-8 feet and a spread of 4-6 feet. The plant has glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and serrated at the edges. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs along the stems. In late spring to early summer, the plant produces an abundance of fragrant, tubular flowers that are crimson-red in color. The flowers are borne in dense clusters at the ends of the branches and are attractive to pollinators.
Care Guide
To care for Escallonia Rubra Var. Macrantha Crimson Spire, provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering during the growing season. Fertilize the plant in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer. This cultivar is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Escallonia Rubra Var. Macrantha Crimson Spire is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildew in humid conditions. Regular pruning and good air circulation can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Escallonia Rubra Var. Macrantha Crimson Spire is native to South America and is commonly found in coastal regions. It prefers a mild, Mediterranean climate and can tolerate salty conditions. This cultivar is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes as a specimen plant or as a hedge.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Escallonia Rubra Var. Macrantha Crimson Spire?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Can I grow Escallonia Rubra Var. Macrantha Crimson Spire in a container?
A: Yes, this cultivar can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with well-draining soil and regular watering.
Q: What is the best time to prune Escallonia Rubra Var. Macrantha Crimson Spire?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth.
Q: How tall can Escallonia Rubra Var. Macrantha Crimson Spire grow?
A: This cultivar typically grows to a height of 6-8 feet and a spread of 4-6 feet.
Related Plants
- Escallonia ‘Pink Elle’
- Escallonia ‘Iveyi’
- Escallonia ‘Donard Seedling’
- Escallonia ‘Gold Brian’
References
- “Escallonia rubra var. macrantha ‘Crimson Spire’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282184&isprofile=0.
- “Escallonia rubra var. macrantha ‘Crimson Spire’.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/90241/Escallonia-rubra-var-macrantha-Crimson-Spire/Details.
- “Escallonia rubra var. macrantha ‘Crimson Spire’.” Plant Finder. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/escallonia-rubra-var-macrantha-crimson-spire.
