Contents
Description
Berchemia Scandens is a deciduous shrub that is commonly known as Alabama supplejack or rattan vine. It is native to the United States and can be found in the southeastern region. It belongs to the Rhamnaceae family and can grow up to 30 feet in height. The plant has a woody stem that twines around other plants for support. It produces small greenish-white flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, followed by small fruits that turn black when mature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Berchemia |
Appearance
Berchemia Scandens has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden. The leaves of the plant are alternate and simple, measuring up to 5 inches in length and 2.5 inches in width. They are dark green in color and have a shiny texture. The stems are slender and have a reddish-brown color, with thorns that are 1 inch in length. The plant produces small greenish-white flowers that are less than 1/4 inch in diameter. The flowers bloom in the spring and summer and are followed by small fruits that turn black when ripe.
Care Guide
Berchemia Scandens is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
Water
The plant requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. This will help the plant grow healthy and strong.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.
Sunlight
The plant requires full sunlight to partial shade to grow properly. It can withstand some shade but will not thrive in full shade.
Hardiness Zones
The plant can grow in hardiness zones 7 to 11, which cover most of the southeastern region of the United States.
Common Pests & Diseases
Berchemia Scandens is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and leaf spot. Spider mites and scale insects can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil, while leaf spot can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Berchemia Scandens is native to the southeastern region of the United States, where it can be found growing in woodlands, thickets, and along stream banks. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Berchemia Scandens poisonous?
A: No, Berchemia Scandens is not considered toxic to humans or animals.
Q: Can Berchemia Scandens be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Berchemia Scandens can be grown in a container. However, it will require regular pruning to prevent it from becoming too large.
Q: How fast does Berchemia Scandens grow?
A: Berchemia Scandens is a slow-growing plant that can take several years to reach its full height.
Q: Does Berchemia Scandens attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Berchemia Scandens can attract birds and other wildlife with its small fruits.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Berchemia Scandens:
- Berchemia racemosa
- Berchemia zeyheri
- Berchemia floribunda
References
- “Berchemia Scandens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 April 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f690>.
- “Berchemia Scandens.” North Carolina State University. Accessed 15 April 2021. <https://www.ces.ncsu.edu/fletcher/programs/nursery/metrolinacrops/2013/C12BerchemiaScandens.pdf>.
- “Berchemia Scandens.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 15 April 2021. <https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP663>.
