Schaefferia

Description

Schaefferia, also known as Florida boxwood, is a small shrub that belongs to the family Celastraceae. It is native to Florida, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Schaefferia is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 5 feet in height and 3 feet in width. It has a dense, compact growth habit with small, glossy, oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color. Schaefferia produces small, fragrant, yellow-green flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Schaefferia has a dense, compact growth habit with small, glossy, oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color. The leaves measure about 1 inch in length and are arranged alternately on the stem. Schaefferia produces small, fragrant, yellow-green flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. The flowers are followed by small, brown, woody capsules that contain seeds. Schaefferia is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 5 feet in height and 3 feet in width.

Care Guide

Water

Schaefferia prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. It is important to water Schaefferia regularly, especially during the growing season.

Fertilization

Schaefferia does not require frequent fertilization. It is recommended to fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.

Soil

Schaefferia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.

Sunlight

Schaefferia prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may become leggy with reduced sunlight.

Hardiness Zones

Schaefferia is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11, which includes most of Florida and the southern coastal states.

Common Pests & Diseases

Schaefferia is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

Habitat

Schaefferia is native to Florida, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. It grows in a variety of habitats, including coastal dunes, pine rocklands, and hammocks. Schaefferia is also commonly used as a landscape plant in residential and commercial settings.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Schaefferia tolerate salt spray?

A: Yes, Schaefferia is tolerant of salt spray and is often used in coastal landscapes.

Q: How often should I prune my Schaefferia?

A: Schaefferia can be pruned as needed to maintain its shape and size. It is best to prune in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Q: Can Schaefferia be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Schaefferia can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives adequate sunlight.

Q: Does Schaefferia attract bees and butterflies?

A: Yes, Schaefferia produces fragrant flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Related Plants

• Celastrus orbiculatus
• Celastrus scandens
• Euonymus americanus
• Euonymus fortunei

References

• “Schaefferia frutescens.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, 2021, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp120.
• “Schaefferia frutescens.” Floridata, 2021, floridata.com/plant/1027.
• “Schaefferia frutescens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b420.