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Description
Helwingiaceae is a small family of flowering plants that includes only two genera: Helwingia and Emmenopterys. The family was first described in 1892 by French botanist Adrien Franchet. Both genera are native to Asia, with Helwingia found in China, Japan, and the Himalayas, and Emmenopterys found in China and Vietnam. These plants are usually grown for their ornamental value, as they produce attractive foliage and flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Helwingiaceae |
| Genus | Helwingia, Emmenopterys |
Appearance
Helwingia plants are evergreen shrubs that can grow up to 6 feet tall. They have glossy, dark green leaves that are leathery in texture and oval in shape. The leaves are alternately arranged on the stem and can grow up to 6 inches long. In the spring, Helwingia produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are greenish-white in color. These flowers are followed by bright red berries that are borne in clusters.Emmenopterys plants are also evergreen shrubs that can grow up to 30 feet tall. They have large, broad leaves that are dark green in color and can grow up to 10 inches long. In the summer, Emmenopterys produces large, showy flowers that are white or pink in color and have a pleasant fragrance.
Care Guide
Water
Helwingia and Emmenopterys plants prefer moist, well-draining soil. Water them regularly during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater them, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize these plants with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.
Soil
Helwingia and Emmenopterys plants prefer slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. They also require good drainage.
Sunlight
These plants prefer partial shade to full shade. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, as this can scorch their leaves.
Hardiness Zones
Helwingia and Emmenopterys plants are hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Helwingia and Emmenopterys plants are susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including scale insects, spider mites, and leaf spot. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or fungicide, as appropriate.
Habitat
Helwingia plants are native to China, Japan, and the Himalayas, where they grow in forested areas. Emmenopterys plants are native to China and Vietnam, where they grow in forests and along streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Helwingia and Emmenopterys plants easy to grow?
A: These plants require some care and attention, but they are not difficult to grow if you provide them with the right conditions.
Q: Can Helwingia and Emmenopterys plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, these plants can be grown in containers, but they may require more frequent watering and fertilization than plants grown in the ground.
Q: Do Helwingia and Emmenopterys plants attract wildlife?
A: The bright red berries produced by Helwingia plants are attractive to birds and other wildlife. The flowers produced by Emmenopterys plants may also attract pollinators.
Q: Can Helwingia and Emmenopterys plants be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, these plants can be propagated from cuttings taken in the summer. Be sure to use a rooting hormone to encourage root growth.
Related Plants
Other plants that are related to Helwingia and Emmenopterys include:
- Ilex
- Phillyrea
- Pyracantha
- Rhamnus
- Symphoricarpos
References
- “Helwingiaceae.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 22 Feb. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helwingiaceae.
- “Emmenopterys.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286809.
- “Helwingia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286810.
