Contents
Description
Coleonema Juniperinum, commonly known as Breath of Heaven, is a small evergreen shrub native to South Africa. It belongs to the Rutaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant in many parts of the world. The shrub has aromatic foliage and produces small pink or white flowers that bloom in late winter or early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Coleonema |
Appearance
Breath of Heaven is a small shrub that grows up to 3-4 feet tall and wide. The leaves are needle-like and have a light green color. The shrub produces small pink or white flowers that bloom in late winter or early spring. The flowers are small, about 1/4 inch in diameter, and grow in clusters at the ends of the branches. The shrub has an aromatic scent that is released when the leaves are bruised or crushed.
Care Guide
To care for Breath of Heaven, it is important to provide well-drained soil and full sun exposure. The shrub prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter months. Fertilize the shrub in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer. Breath of Heaven is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Breath of Heaven is generally a healthy plant and is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The shrub can also be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet or poorly drained.
Habitat
Breath of Heaven is native to South Africa and is commonly found in scrublands and rocky terrain. It grows best in full sun and well-drained soil.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Breath of Heaven a good plant for containers?
A: Yes, Breath of Heaven can be grown in containers as long as they provide adequate drainage and are large enough for the plant to grow.
Q: Can Breath of Heaven be used as a hedge plant?
A: Yes, Breath of Heaven can be used as a low hedge plant. It responds well to pruning and can be shaped to fit the desired space.
Q: Does Breath of Heaven attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the small flowers of Breath of Heaven attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Breath of Heaven be grown indoors?
A: No, Breath of Heaven is an outdoor plant that requires full sun exposure.
Related Plants
- Coleonema Alba
- Coleonema Pulchrum
- Coleonema Sunset Gold
- Coleonema Ursinum
References
- “Coleonema Juniperinum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 23 August 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280754&isprofile=0&basic=Coleonema.
- “Breath of Heaven.” Monrovia. Accessed 23 August 2021. www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1605/breath-of-heaven.php.
- “Coleonema Juniperinum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 23 August 2021. www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/15733/i-Coleonema-juniperinum-i/Details.
