Contents
Description
Augusta Longifolia, also known as Yellow Anise Tree, is a beautiful evergreen shrub that belongs to the Schisandraceae family. It is native to China and can grow up to 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide. The plant produces small yellow star-shaped flowers that bloom in late winter and early spring. It has a delightful fragrance that attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Austrobaileyales |
| Family | Schisandraceae |
| Genus | Illicium |
| Species | Augusta |
Appearance
Augusta Longifolia has an impressive appearance with glossy, leathery, dark green leaves that measure up to eight inches long. The plant’s bark is smooth and brown. The flowers are small, about one inch wide, and yellow, with a star-shaped appearance. They bloom in late winter and early spring and have a sweet fragrance that fills the air.
Care Guide
Water Augusta Longifolia regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Add a layer of organic mulch to the soil to help retain moisture. Fertilize the plant during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Plant the tree in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Augusta Longifolia prefers partial sun to full shade and grows best in hardiness zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Augusta Longifolia is typically pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly draining soil. Spider mites and scale insects can infest the plant and cause yellowing of the leaves. If detected early, these pests can be removed by hand or treated with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Augusta Longifolia is native to China and is commonly found in woodlands and along stream banks. It grows best in partial shade and well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Augusta Longifolia tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Augusta Longifolia can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°F, making it a hardy plant for most regions.
Q: How often should I fertilize Augusta Longifolia?
A: Fertilize Augusta Longifolia once every three months during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I detect spider mites on Augusta Longifolia?
A: Look for small, spider-like insects on the undersides of the leaves. They can be removed by hand or treated with insecticidal soap.
Q: Can Augusta Longifolia be used for landscaping?
A: Yes, Augusta Longifolia is a popular landscaping plant that can be used as a specimen plant or as a hedge.
Related Plants
- Illicium floridanum
- Illicium griffithii
- Illicium henryi
- Illicium lanceolatum
References
- “Augusta Longifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j270.
- “Illicium Augusta – Plant Finder.” Www.Www.Monrovia.Com, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/181/illicium-augusta/.
- “Illicium Augusta (Yellow Anise Tree).” North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/illicium-augusta/.
