Carrierea Calycina

Description

Carrierea Calycina is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Pittosporaceae. It is commonly known as the Chinese Pittosporum or the Chinese Cheesewood. It is native to China, Taiwan, and Japan, and is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. The plant grows up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide, and has a rounded shape with glossy, dark green leaves that are 1-2 inches long. The flowers are small and white, and have a sweet fragrance that attracts bees and other pollinators.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Carrierea Calycina is a small tree or shrub with a rounded shape and glossy, dark green leaves that are 1-2 inches long. The leaves are oval-shaped with pointed tips and smooth edges, and are arranged alternately along the branches. The flowers are small and white, and are borne in clusters at the ends of the branches. They have a sweet fragrance that attracts bees and other pollinators. The fruit is a small, hard capsule that contains numerous seeds.

Care Guide

Carrierea Calycina is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your Chinese Pittosporum healthy and thriving:

Water

Water your Carrierea Calycina regularly, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged, and allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Reduce watering during the winter months when the plant is dormant.

Fertilization

Feed your Chinese Pittosporum with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer. Use a slow-release granular fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause leaf burn and other problems.

Soil

Plant your Carrierea Calycina in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. If your soil is too alkaline, you can add elemental sulfur to lower the pH.

Sunlight

Chinese Pittosporum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and weak. If you live in a hot climate, provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.

Hardiness Zones

Carrierea Calycina is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. It can tolerate temperatures down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but may suffer damage if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.

Common Pests & Diseases

Carrierea Calycina is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to a few problems:

Pests

• Aphids
• Scale insects
• Mites

Diseases

• Root rot
• Leaf spot
• Anthracnose

To prevent these problems, make sure your plant is growing in well-draining soil and is not overwatered. Treat infestations or infections promptly with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.

Habitat

Carrierea Calycina is native to China, Taiwan, and Japan, and is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, and can tolerate temperatures down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Carrierea Calycina toxic to pets?

A: There is no evidence that Carrierea Calycina is toxic to pets. However, it is always a good idea to keep pets away from plants that are not intended for consumption.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Chinese Pittosporum?

A: It is recommended to fertilize Carrierea Calycina with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer. Use a slow-release granular fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.

Q: Can I grow Carrierea Calycina in a container?

A: Yes, Chinese Pittosporum can be grown in a container. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots, and use a well-draining potting mix. Water and fertilize regularly, and repot the plant every 2-3 years.

Q: How do I propagate Carrierea Calycina?

A: Carrierea Calycina can be propagated by taking stem cuttings in the summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone, and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings moist and warm, and they should root within a few weeks.

Related Plants

• Pittosporum tobira
• Pittosporum crassifolium
• Pittosporum undulatum
• Pittosporum tenuifolium

References

• “Carrierea calycina.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 8, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282966.
• “Carrierea calycina – Chinese Pittosporum.” Plant Care Today. Accessed September 8, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/carrierea-calycina.html.
• “Chinese Pittosporum (Carrierea calycina).” Gardenia.net. Accessed September 8, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/carrierea-calycina-chinese-pittosporum.