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Description
Cleyera Japonica, also known as Japanese cleyera, is an evergreen shrub native to Japan, Korea, and China. It belongs to the tea family, Theaceae. The plant usually grows up to 10 to 12 feet tall and wide with a rounded shape. Cleyera Japonica is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in many countries due to its attractive foliage and flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Theaceae |
| Genus | Cleyera |
Appearance
Cleyera Japonica has glossy, leathery, evergreen leaves that are dark green in color and elliptical or ovate in shape. The leaves are about 2 to 4 inches long and 1 to 2 inches wide. The plant produces fragrant, creamy-white flowers that bloom in the spring and early summer. The flowers are about 1 inch in diameter and have 5 petals. The plant also produces small, round, red berries that are about 1/2 inch in diameter.
Care Guide
Water: Cleyera Japonica prefers well-drained soil and requires regular watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Cleyera Japonica prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate some shade but will not flower as well.Hardiness Zones: Cleyera Japonica is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cleyera Japonica is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:Pests: Spider mites, scale insects, and whiteflies.Diseases: Leaf spots, powdery mildew, and root rot.To prevent these pests and diseases, it is important to keep the plant healthy and well-watered. If necessary, use a pesticide or fungicide to control infestations.
Habitat
Cleyera Japonica is native to Japan, Korea, and China. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, mountains, and coastal areas. The plant prefers well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cleyera Japonica deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Cleyera Japonica is deer-resistant.Q: Can Cleyera Japonica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Cleyera Japonica can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.Q: How often should I prune my Cleyera Japonica?
A: Prune Cleyera Japonica in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged branches and shape the plant as desired.Q: Can Cleyera Japonica be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Cleyera Japonica can be propagated from softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Theaceae family include:
- Camellia
- Franklinia
- Gordonia
- Stewartia
References
- “Cleyera Japonica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c630.
- “Cleyera Japonica.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/cleyera-plant-profile-5079008.
- “Cleyera Japonica.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FP/FP17100.pdf.
