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Description
Cneoridium, commonly known as the bushrue, is a genus of flowering plants in the buckthorn family Rhamnaceae. It consists of only one species, Cneoridium dumosum, which is an evergreen shrub endemic to California in the United States. This plant is often found growing in chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitats.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rhamnales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Cneoridium |
Appearance
Cneoridium dumosum is a dense, low-growing shrub that can reach up to 6 feet in height and 8 feet in width. It has small, leathery, glossy green leaves that are oblong to oval in shape and about 1 inch long. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that are fragrant and bloom in the summer. The fruit of the plant is a small, red berry that is also fragrant and attracts birds.
Care Guide
Cneoridium is a relatively low maintenance plant. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of soil types. It requires moderate watering, with the soil being kept moist but not waterlogged. Fertilization is not necessary but can be done once a year in the spring. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in hardiness zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cneoridium is generally not susceptible to pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and aphids. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can occur if the plant is overwatered or planted in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
Cneoridium is native to California and can be found growing in chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitats. It is also commonly planted in gardens and landscapes as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cneoridium a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Cneoridium is a good plant for landscaping because of its dense growth habit and ornamental features.
Q: How often should Cneoridium be watered?
A: Cneoridium should be watered moderately, with the soil being kept moist but not waterlogged. Watering once a week should be sufficient.
Q: Can Cneoridium be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Cneoridium can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth and drainage holes are provided.
Q: How often should Cneoridium be fertilized?
A: Fertilization is not necessary but can be done once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Rhamnus californica
- Ceanothus
- Baccharis pilularis
- Arctostaphylos
References
- Calflora: Cneoridium dumosum
- Las Pilitas Nursery: Cneoridium dumosum
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources: Cneoridium dumosum
