Contents
Description
Cliftonia, also known as Cliftonia monophylla, is a small ornamental plant that belongs to the family Ericaceae. It is native to southeastern United States and is known for its beautiful pink flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The plant is named after William Clifton Jr., a botanist and physician who discovered it in the late 1700s.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Cliftonia |
Appearance
Cliftonia is a small to medium-sized evergreen shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has a dense, rounded shape with multiple stems and branches. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and leathery, and can grow up to 4 inches long. The plant produces clusters of pink, bell-shaped flowers that are about 1 inch long and bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by small, round fruits that turn brown when ripe.
Care Guide
Cliftonia is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow in the right conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Cliftonia:
- Water: Cliftonia prefers consistently moist soil, so water it regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Cliftonia with a slow-release, acid-based fertilizer in the spring and fall.
- Soil: Cliftonia thrives in well-draining, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Cliftonia prefers partial shade to full shade, but can tolerate some sun if the soil is consistently moist.
- Hardiness Zones: Cliftonia is hardy in USDA zones 7-9, but can be grown in other zones with proper care.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cliftonia is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but can be susceptible to root rot and leaf spot if the soil is too wet or the plant is overcrowded. Aphids and spider mites can also be a problem, especially in dry conditions. To prevent these issues, make sure to water your plant properly, prune it regularly, and keep an eye out for any signs of infestation or disease.
Habitat
Cliftonia is native to the southeastern United States, where it can be found in moist, shady areas such as swamps, bogs, and bottomlands. It is often found growing alongside other wetland species such as cypress, tupelo, and ferns.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cliftonia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Cliftonia can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil is kept consistently moist.
Q: How often should I prune my Cliftonia?
A: Cliftonia should be pruned once a year in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches and promote healthy growth.
Q: How long does it take for Cliftonia to bloom?
A: Cliftonia typically blooms in late spring to early summer, about 2-3 years after planting.
Q: How do I propagate Cliftonia?
A: Cliftonia can be propagated by taking softwood cuttings in the spring or hardwood cuttings in the fall. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining, moist soil.
Related Plants
- Blueberries (Vaccinium spp.)
- Azaleas (Rhododendron spp.)
- Mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia)
- Heath (Erica spp.)
References
- “Cliftonia monophylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282309.
- “Cliftonia monophylla.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed May 2021. www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CLMO.
- Dirr, Michael A. Manual of Woody Landscape Plants: Their Identification, Ornamental Characteristics, Culture, Propagation and Uses. Sixth edition, Stipes Publishing LLC, 2009.
