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Description
Adolphia Californica, also known as California adolphia, is a hardy shrub that is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is a member of the Rhamnaceae family and is known for its drought-tolerant nature, making it a popular choice for low-water gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Adolphia |
Appearance
The Adolphia Californica shrub can grow up to 6 feet in height and spread up to 8 feet wide. It has small, ovate leaves that are between 1-3 inches long and 0.5-1.5 inches wide. The leaves are a grayish-green color and are covered in fine hairs, giving them a fuzzy texture. The shrub produces small, white flowers in the spring and summer, which are followed by small, red berries in the fall.
Care Guide
The Adolphia Californica shrub is a hardy plant that requires minimal care once established. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: This shrub is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering. Water deeply once a week during the first year after planting to help establish the roots. After that, it can survive on natural rainfall.
- Fertilization: This shrub does not require regular fertilization. If the soil is poor, fertilize with a slow-release, all-purpose fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: Adolphia Californica prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy or rocky soil. It can also tolerate slightly alkaline soil.
- Sunlight: This shrub prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Adolphia Californica is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Adolphia Californica shrub is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by spider mites or scales. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The shrub can also be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
Adolphia Californica is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, where it can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including deserts, chaparral, and coastal sage scrub. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of temperatures and soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Adolphia Californica deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Adolphia Californica is considered deer-resistant.
Q: Can Adolphia Californica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Adolphia Californica can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the root system.
Q: Does Adolphia Californica require pruning?
A: Adolphia Californica does not require regular pruning. However, if it becomes too large or unruly, it can be pruned in the late winter or early spring.
Q: How often should I water Adolphia Californica?
A: Adolphia Californica is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering once established. Water deeply once a week during the first year after planting to help establish the roots. After that, it can survive on natural rainfall.
Related Plants
- Adolphia infesta
- Adolphia nana
- Adolphia stenoclada
References
- “Adolphia californica.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed May 2, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ADCA.
- “Adolphia californica.” DesertUSA. Accessed May 2, 2021. https://www.desertusa.com/flora/adolphia-californica.html.
- “Adolphia californica.” Calflora. Accessed May 2, 2021. https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Adolphia+californica.
