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Description
Cliffortia Cuneata, commonly known as the ‘Wagon Tree’, is a small evergreen shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant is endemic to South Africa and found mainly in the Western Cape Province. It grows up to 1.5 meters tall and can spread up to 2 meters wide. The plant has a rounded shape with dense foliage and produces small, white flowers in late winter to early spring. These flowers are followed by small, green fruit that turns red when ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Cliffortia |
| Species | Cuneata |
Appearance
The Cliffortia Cuneata has a rounded shape with dense foliage. The leaves are leathery, dark green, and have a glossy surface. They are lance-shaped and grow up to 3cm in length. During late winter to early spring, small white flowers bloom on the plant. These flowers are followed by small, green fruits that turn red when ripe. The plant grows up to 1.5 meters tall and can spread up to 2 meters wide.
Care Guide
Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. Water the plant once a week during the growing season and less frequently in winter.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The Cliffortia Cuneata prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level. Add organic matter such as compost to the soil to improve its quality.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun exposure but can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The Cliffortia Cuneata thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Cliffortia Cuneata is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring the soil has good drainage.
Habitat
The Cliffortia Cuneata is endemic to South Africa and found mainly in the Western Cape Province. It grows in rocky slopes and sandstone outcrops in the Fynbos biome, which is characterized by a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Cliffortia Cuneata?
A: Water the plant once a week during the growing season and less frequently in winter.
Q: What are the common pests that affect the Cliffortia Cuneata?
A: The plant is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and scale insects.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for the Cliffortia Cuneata?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for the Cliffortia Cuneata?
A: The plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9-10.
Related Plants
- Cliffortia Arborea
- Cliffortia Alata
- Cliffortia Ferruginea
- Cliffortia Ruscifolia
References
- “Cliffortia Cuneata.” PlantZAfrica, National Botanical Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/cliffcune.htm.
- “Cliffortia Cuneata.” SANBI, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.sanbi.org/creature/cliffortia-cuneata/.
- “Cliffortia Cuneata.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/cliffortia-cuneata.
