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Description
Frangula Californica, commonly known as California coffeeberry, is a deciduous shrub native to California and southern Oregon. It is a member of the Rhamnaceae family and can grow up to 20 feet tall in the wild. The plant is known for its dark green foliage and clusters of small, red or black berries, which are a food source for many birds and mammals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Frangula |
Appearance
Frangula Californica has an open, spreading growth habit and can be trained to grow as a small tree or large shrub. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and leathery, with a serrated edge. The plant produces clusters of small, red or black berries that ripen in the fall and persist through the winter. The flowers are small, greenish-white, and inconspicuous.
Care Guide
Frangula Californica is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it does require some care to thrive. It prefers well-draining soil and regular watering, especially during the first few years after planting. Fertilization is not necessary but can be beneficial in poor soils. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Frangula Californica is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including spider mites, scale insects, and powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and early detection can help prevent these problems from becoming severe. If infestations occur, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used to control pests. Fungicides may be necessary to control powdery mildew.
Habitat
Frangula Californica is native to California and southern Oregon, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including chaparral, oak woodland, and mixed evergreen forest. It is a common component of riparian forests and can be found along streams and rivers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Frangula Californica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Frangula Californica can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization than plants grown in the ground.
Q: Are the berries of Frangula Californica edible?
A: The berries of Frangula Californica are not considered edible for humans, as they contain toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset.
Q: Can Frangula Californica be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Frangula Californica can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in the spring or fall, respectively.
Q: How often should Frangula Californica be pruned?
A: Frangula Californica does not require regular pruning, but can be pruned to maintain its shape or size. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring.
Related Plants
- Frangula alnus
- Frangula caroliniana
- Frangula purshiana
- Rhamnus californica
References
- California Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Frangula Californica. Retrieved from https://www.calscape.org/Frangula-Californica-(California-Coffeeberry)
- Las Pilitas Nursery. (n.d.). Frangula Californica. Retrieved from https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/440–frangula-californica
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Frangula Californica. Retrieved from https://ucanr.edu/sites/UrbanHort/California_Native_Plants/Shrubs/Frangula_californica/
