Contents
Description
Lyonia Ovalifolia Var. Elliptica is a small, evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and grows in moist, acidic soils. The plant has a slow growth rate and typically reaches a height of 3-6 feet with a spread of 4-8 feet. Its leaves are oval-shaped, dark green, and glossy, measuring 1-2 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide. The plant produces small, white to pink flowers in the spring and summer, followed by small, round, reddish-brown fruits in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Lyonia |
| Species | Lyonia ovalifolia |
| Variety | Elliptica |
Appearance
The Lyonia Ovalifolia Var. Elliptica has a dense, bushy growth habit with a rounded shape. Its dark green leaves are leathery and glossy, and they turn bronze in the fall. The plant produces small, white to pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, measuring about 0.25 inches wide. Its fruit is a small, round, reddish-brown capsule that is about 0.25 inches in diameter. The plant typically grows to a height of 3-6 feet and a spread of 4-8 feet.
Care Guide
Lyonia Ovalifolia Var. Elliptica requires moist, acidic soil with good drainage. It prefers partial shade to full sun and is hardy in USDA zones 7-9. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during the first year of growth, to establish a healthy root system. It should be fertilized annually in the spring with an acidic fertilizer. Pruning should be done in the spring after flowering to maintain the plant’s shape and size.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lyonia Ovalifolia Var. Elliptica is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot if grown in poorly drained soil. Spider mites and scale insects may also infest the plant. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
Lyonia Ovalifolia Var. Elliptica is native to the southeastern United States, where it grows in moist, acidic soils in pine forests, bogs, and swamps. It can also be found in coastal areas and along streams.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Lyonia Ovalifolia Var. Elliptica?
A: The plant should be watered regularly, especially during the first year of growth, to establish a healthy root system. After that, it should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season.
Q: What is the best time to prune my Lyonia Ovalifolia Var. Elliptica?
A: Pruning should be done in the spring after flowering to maintain the plant’s shape and size.
Q: What is the ideal pH for growing Lyonia Ovalifolia Var. Elliptica?
A: The plant prefers acidic soil with a pH of 4.5-5.5.
Q: Can Lyonia Ovalifolia Var. Elliptica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with well-draining, acidic soil and regular watering.
Related Plants
- Lyonia ligustrina
- Lyonia mariana
- Lyonia ferruginea
- Lyonia lucida
References
- Dirr, Michael A. Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press, 2011.
- Gilman, Edward F. “Lyonia Ovalifolia.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, 1999.
- Nelson, Gil. The Shrubs and Woody Vines of Florida: A Reference and Field Guide. Pineapple Press, 1994.
