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Description
Comarostaphylis Diversifolia, also known as Summer Holly or California Comarostaphylos, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to California and can be found in chaparral and oak woodlands. This plant can grow up to 12 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has small white or pink flowers that bloom from May to July, followed by red or blackish berries that attract birds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Comarostaphylis |
Appearance
Comarostaphylis Diversifolia has dark green, leathery leaves that are about 1-2 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide. The leaves are glossy on the upper surface and paler on the underside. The bark is reddish-brown and peels off in thin strips. The flowers are small, white or pink, and bell-shaped. The berries are about 0.25 inch in diameter, red or blackish, and edible but not very palatable.
Care Guide
Comarostaphylis Diversifolia is easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of conditions. Here are some tips for growing this plant:- Water: Water regularly but do not overwater. This plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate some drought.- Fertilization: Fertilize in spring with a slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: This plant prefers acidic, well-draining soil.- Sunlight: This plant can tolerate full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy to USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Comarostaphylis Diversifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. This plant can also be affected by root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Comarostaphylis Diversifolia is native to California and can be found in chaparral and oak woodlands. It prefers dry, rocky slopes and canyons. This plant is adapted to wildfire and can resprout from its roots after a fire.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Comarostaphylis Diversifolia poisonous?
A: No, this plant is not poisonous, but the berries are not very palatable.
Q: Can Comarostaphylis Diversifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full size.
Q: How often should I fertilize Comarostaphylis Diversifolia?
A: Fertilize this plant once a year in spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: How do I prune Comarostaphylis Diversifolia?
A: Prune this plant in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size. Remove any dead or diseased wood.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Comarostaphylis Diversifolia:- Arctostaphylos glauca (Big Berry Manzanita)- Arctostaphylos hookeri (Hooker’s Manzanita)- Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Bearberry)- Arctostaphylos densiflora (Vine Hill Manzanita)
References
– “Comarostaphylis Diversifolia.” Las Pilitas Nursery. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/comarostaphylis-diversifolia- “Comarostaphylis Diversifolia.” Calflora. https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Comarostaphylis+diversifolia
