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Description
Berberis Swaseyi is a species of flowering plant in the Berberidaceae family, native to the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California. It is a rare and endangered plant, listed as a federally endangered species. This shrub grows up to 5 feet tall and 6 feet wide, with thorny branches and small, green leaves. It blooms in late spring to early summer, producing bright yellow flowers that attract pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Berberidaceae |
| Genus | Berberis |
| Species | Swaseyi |
Appearance
Berberis Swaseyi is a dense, evergreen shrub with a rounded shape. It has small, glossy green leaves that are 0.5-1 inch long and turn reddish in winter. The stems are covered in sharp thorns, making it an effective barrier plant. In late spring to early summer, Berberis Swaseyi produces clusters of bright yellow flowers that are 0.5-0.75 inches wide. These flowers are followed by small, red berries that are edible but sour to taste.
Care Guide
Berberis Swaseyi is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:- Water: Berberis Swaseyi prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be over-watered. Water deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.- Fertilization: Berberis Swaseyi does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again in early fall.- Soil: Berberis Swaseyi grows best in well-drained, acidic soil. If your soil is heavy, amend it with organic matter such as compost or peat moss.- Sunlight: Berberis Swaseyi prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well.- Hardiness Zones: Berberis Swaseyi is hardy to USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Berberis Swaseyi is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but may be susceptible to:- Rust: A fungal disease that causes orange or brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and apply a fungicide if necessary.- Aphids: Small insects that suck sap from the leaves. Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil to control.- Scale: Small insects that attach themselves to the stems and suck sap. Use a horticultural oil to suffocate them.
Habitat
Berberis Swaseyi is native to the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California, where it grows in rocky, well-drained soil at high elevations. It is found in chaparral, oak woodland, and mixed conifer forests. Berberis Swaseyi is an important plant for wildlife, providing food and cover for birds and small mammals.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Berberis Swaseyi a good hedge plant?
A: Yes, Berberis Swaseyi is an effective hedge plant due to its thorny branches and dense growth habit.Q: Can Berberis Swaseyi be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Berberis Swaseyi can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.Q: Does Berberis Swaseyi attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Berberis Swaseyi produces bright yellow flowers that are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.Q: How often should I prune Berberis Swaseyi?
A: Prune Berberis Swaseyi in late winter to early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or diseased branches and shape the plant as desired.
Related Plants
– Berberis aquifolium (Oregon grape)- Berberis thunbergii (Japanese barberry)- Berberis darwinii (Darwin’s barberry)
References
– United States Department of Agriculture. (n.d.). Berberis swaseyi. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=BESW- Calflora. (n.d.). Berberis swaseyi. Retrieved from https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=1021
