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Description
Leucothoe Davisiae, commonly known as Davis’ Leucothoe, is a species of evergreen shrub native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America. It is a member of the Ericaceae family and can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. The plant is named after the American botanist William Morris Davis.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Leucothoe |
Appearance
Leucothoe Davisiae has glossy, dark green leaves that are 1-5 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate to elliptic in shape. In the spring, the plant produces small, urn-shaped, white or pinkish flowers that are 0.25 inches long and hang in clusters from the underside of the branches. The flowers are followed by small, black berries that ripen in the fall.
Care Guide
To care for Leucothoe Davisiae, it is important to provide it with well-draining, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought once established. It should be watered deeply and regularly during dry periods. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release, acidic fertilizer. Davis’ Leucothoe prefers partial shade to full shade and is hardy in USDA zones 6-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Leucothoe Davisiae is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot, root rot, and powdery mildew if the soil is too wet or the plant is grown in a location with poor air circulation.
Habitat
Davis’ Leucothoe is native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America, where it is commonly found in moist, shaded areas such as woodland edges, stream banks, and rocky slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Leucothoe Davisiae tolerate full sun?
A: No, Davis’ Leucothoe prefers partial shade to full shade.
Q: What is the typical size of a mature plant?
A: Leucothoe Davisiae can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide.
Q: How often should I water the plant?
A: The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought once established. Water deeply and regularly during dry periods.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Leucothoe Davisiae?
A: Davis’ Leucothoe is hardy in USDA zones 6-8.
Related Plants
Other species of Leucothoe include:
- Leucothoe Fontanesiana
- Leucothoe Axillaris
- Leucothoe Racemosa
References
- “Leucothoe Davisiae.” Pacific Horticulture Society, 2013, www.pacifichorticulture.org/articles/leucothoe-davisiae/. Accessed 22 Sept. 2021.
- “Leucothoe Davisiae.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a500. Accessed 22 Sept. 2021.
- “Leucothoe Davisiae.” North Carolina State University, 2021, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/leucothoe-davisiae/. Accessed 22 Sept. 2021.
