Contents
Description
Vauquelinia is a genus of evergreen shrubs and small trees, native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. They are commonly known as Arizona rosewood or Texas wild olive, and are popular as ornamental plants in gardens for their attractive foliage and fragrant flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Vauquelinia |
Appearance
Vauquelinia plants have glossy, dark green leaves that are leathery and stiff. The leaves are usually lance-shaped or oval, with serrated edges. The plants produce small, fragrant white or pink flowers in the spring, followed by small, red or purple fruit that resemble olives.
Care Guide
Water: Vauquelinia plants prefer moderate watering, with well-draining soil. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.Fertilization: Fertilize Vauquelinia plants in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants.Soil: Vauquelinia plants prefer well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with organic matter before planting.Sunlight: Vauquelinia plants prefer full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, they may benefit from some afternoon shade.Hardiness Zones: Vauquelinia plants are hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vauquelinia plants are relatively pest and disease-free. However, they may be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-draining soil. Spider mites and scale insects may also be occasional pests.
Habitat
Vauquelinia plants are native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, where they grow in rocky, well-draining soil in arid and semiarid regions. They are commonly found in canyons, slopes, and rocky hillsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Vauquelinia plants tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Vauquelinia plants can tolerate drought once established. However, they prefer moderate watering.Q: How often should I fertilize my Vauquelinia plant?
A: Fertilize Vauquelinia plants once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants.Q: Can Vauquelinia plants grow in containers?
A: Yes, Vauquelinia plants can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: How tall do Vauquelinia plants grow?
A: Vauquelinia plants can grow up to 20 feet tall, but can be pruned to maintain a smaller size.
Related Plants
- Cercocarpus
- Chilopsis
- Dodonaea
- Purshia
References
- “Vauquelinia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 12 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286585>.
- “Vauquelinia.” Encyclopedia of Life. Accessed 12 May 2021. <https://eol.org/pages/1142887>.
- “Vauquelinia.” PlantFiles. Accessed 12 May 2021. <https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/58013/>.
