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Description
Cephalanthus Salicifolius, commonly known as the willow-leaved buttonbush, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide. The plant produces small, white, ball-shaped flowers that bloom from June to September. The flowers are fragrant and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The plant also produces small, red-brown, spherical fruits that persist throughout winter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Cephalanthus |
Appearance
The willow-leaved buttonbush has narrow, lance-shaped green leaves that are 2-5 inches long and 1/2-1 inch wide. The leaves are arranged opposite each other on the stem. The plant has a rounded, bushy shape and produces multiple stems from the base. The flowers are small, white, and ball-shaped, measuring approximately 1/2 inch in diameter. The fruit is a small, red-brown, spherical capsule that is 1/4 inch in diameter.
Care Guide
Cephalanthus Salicifolius thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-draining soil. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sand, loam, and clay. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells, to maintain soil moisture. Fertilization is not necessary, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The willow-leaved buttonbush is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust. These diseases can be treated with a fungicide spray. The plant can also be infested with spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Cephalanthus Salicifolius is native to the southeastern United States, including Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. It grows in wetland areas, such as swamps, marshes, and stream banks. The plant is also commonly found in floodplains and along the edges of ponds and lakes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the willow-leaved buttonbush be grown in a container?
A: While it is possible to grow the plant in a container, it may not thrive as well as it would in the ground. The plant requires regular watering and may become root-bound if grown in a container for an extended period of time.
Q: How often should the plant be pruned?
A: Pruning is not necessary for the willow-leaved buttonbush, but it can be done in the spring to maintain the plant’s shape or to remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: How long does it take for the plant to bloom?
A: The willow-leaved buttonbush typically blooms from June to September, depending on the climate and growing conditions.
Q: Is the plant deer-resistant?
A: While the willow-leaved buttonbush is not considered deer-resistant, it is not a preferred food source for deer and is generally left alone.
Related Plants
- Cephalanthus Occidentalis (Common buttonbush)
- Cephalanthus Glabratus (Crimson-eyed rosemallow)
- Cephalanthus Tetrandra (Four-stamen buttonbush)
References
- “Cephalanthus salicifolius.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. Accessed 12 October 2021.
- “Cephalanthus salicifolius.” North Carolina State University Extension. North Carolina State University, n.d. Web. Accessed 12 October 2021.
- “Willow-leaved buttonbush.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. University of Florida, n.d. Web. Accessed 12 October 2021.
