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Description
Chrysolepis Sempervirens, commonly known as the bush chinquapin or evergreen chinquapin, is an evergreen tree species that belongs to the Fagaceae family. It is native to the western United States and can be found in the states of California, Oregon, and Washington. This tree species can grow up to 50 feet tall and has a trunk that can reach up to 2 feet in diameter. The bark of Chrysolepis Sempervirens is gray and scaly, while its twigs are brown and hairy. The leaves are leathery, glossy, and dark green in color, while the flowers are small and yellowish-green. The tree produces small, edible nuts enclosed in spiny burrs.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Chrysolepis |
Appearance
The Chrysolepis Sempervirens tree has an attractive appearance with its glossy, dark green leaves and small, yellowish-green flowers. The bark of the tree is gray and scaly, while the twigs are brown and hairy. The tree produces small, edible nuts enclosed in spiny burrs that can be harvested in the fall. The nuts are a valuable food source for wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and birds.
Care Guide
To ensure the healthy growth of Chrysolepis Sempervirens, proper care is essential. Here are some tips to follow:
- Water: The tree should be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. However, make sure not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: Chrysolepis Sempervirens prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Chrysolepis Sempervirens grows best in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chrysolepis Sempervirens is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to oak root fungus, which can cause root rot and ultimately kill the tree. To prevent this, avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage. Other pests that may affect this tree include mites, scale insects, and aphids.
Habitat
Chrysolepis Sempervirens is native to the western United States and can be found in the states of California, Oregon, and Washington. It grows in a variety of habitats, including mixed evergreen and coniferous forests, chaparral, and oak woodlands. The tree is an important component of the ecosystem as it provides food and habitat for wildlife.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the height of a mature Chrysolepis Sempervirens tree?
A: A mature Chrysolepis Sempervirens tree can reach up to 50 feet in height.
Q: When should I harvest the nuts of a Chrysolepis Sempervirens tree?
A: The nuts of a Chrysolepis Sempervirens tree should be harvested in the fall.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Chrysolepis Sempervirens?
A: Chrysolepis Sempervirens grows best in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 9.
Q: What type of soil does Chrysolepis Sempervirens prefer?
A: Chrysolepis Sempervirens prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Related Plants
- Chrysolepis chrysophylla
- Quercus agrifolia
- Quercus kelloggii
- Quercus lobata
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Chrysolepis Sempervirens. Retrieved March 23, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?id=CHSE4
- University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources. (n.d.). Bush chinquapin. Retrieved March 23, 2021, from https://ucanr.edu/sites/forestry/California_forests/Tree_Identification/bush_chinquapin/
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Chrysolepis Sempervirens. Retrieved March 23, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=261129&isprofile=1&basic=bush%20chinquapin
