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Description
Cleyera, also known as Ternstroemia gymnanthera, is a flowering evergreen shrub that belongs to the Theaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in countries such as China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. The plant can grow up to 15 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for hedges, screens, or as a standalone plant in a garden. Cleyera produces small fragrant flowers in the spring and fall, with some cultivars producing blooms year-round.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Theaceae |
| Genus | Ternstroemia |
Appearance
Cleyera has glossy dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and can grow up to 4 inches long. The plant has a dense and compact growth habit, with the leaves arranged alternately on the stems. The flowers of the Cleyera plant are small and white, with a pleasant fragrance. The plant produces small berries that are red in color and can attract birds. The bark of the Cleyera plant is brown and smooth.
Care Guide
Water: Cleyera requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as this can cause root rot.Fertilization: Cleyera should be fertilized in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Do not over-fertilize, as this can damage the roots.Soil: Cleyera prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 6.5.Sunlight: Cleyera prefers partial shade to full sun. Too much sun can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off.Hardiness Zones: Cleyera is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cleyera is generally not prone to pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Cleyera can also be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
Cleyera is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in countries such as China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. It prefers a warm and humid climate and can grow in a variety of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Cleyera plant?
A: Cleyera requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.Q: Can Cleyera be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Cleyera can be grown in containers. However, it may require more frequent watering and fertilizing.Q: How tall does Cleyera grow?
A: Cleyera can grow up to 15 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide.Q: Can Cleyera tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Cleyera is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and can tolerate cold temperatures down to 0°F.
Related Plants
– Camellia- Rhododendron- Azalea- Viburnum- Pieris
References
– “Ternstroemia gymnanthera.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 21, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=292625&isprofile=0&.- “Cleyera.” Clemson Cooperative Extension. Accessed October 21, 2021. https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/cleyera/.
