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Description
Enkianthus Quinqueflorus, commonly known as the Coastal Enkianthus, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to Japan and Korea and is widely cultivated in gardens and parks for its attractive foliage and flowers. The shrub can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide and has a rounded shape. It features oval-shaped leaves that are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are dark green during the summer, turning bright red in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Enkianthus |
| Species | Quinqueflorus |
Appearance
The Coastal Enkianthus produces beautiful bell-shaped flowers that are 1-1.5 inches long and are white or pink in color. The flowers appear in clusters of 5-12 in late spring to early summer. The shrub also has attractive bark that is smooth and grayish-brown in color. During the fall, the bark peels off to reveal a cinnamon-colored layer underneath. Overall, the Enkianthus Quinqueflorus is a stunning shrub that adds beauty to any garden or landscape.
Care Guide
Here are some tips for caring for the Coastal Enkianthus:
Water
The shrub prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells.
Fertilization
Fertilize the shrub in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall as it can stimulate new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.
Soil
The Enkianthus Quinqueflorus prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6.5. If the soil is too alkaline, add sulfur to lower the pH.
Sunlight
The shrub prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade, but it may not produce as many flowers.
Hardiness Zones
The Coastal Enkianthus is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Enkianthus Quinqueflorus is generally free of pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and scale insects. Keep an eye out for any signs of these problems and treat them promptly with appropriate fungicides or insecticides.
Habitat
The Coastal Enkianthus is native to Japan and Korea and grows in mountainous regions. It prefers cool, moist environments and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Question and Answer
Here are some common questions and answers about the Enkianthus Quinqueflorus:
Q: Is the Coastal Enkianthus deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the shrub is deer-resistant.
Q: Can the Enkianthus Quinqueflorus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the shrub can be grown in containers, but it may not grow as large as it would in the ground.
Q: Does the Coastal Enkianthus attract bees?
A: Yes, the shrub attracts bees and other pollinators.
Q: When is the best time to prune the Enkianthus Quinqueflorus?
A: Prune the shrub in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Enkianthus Campanulatus
- Enkianthus Perulatus
- Enkianthus Retusus
References
- “Enkianthus Quinqueflorus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 5 Feb. 2022. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287867>
- “Coastal Enkianthus.” The Spruce. Accessed 5 Feb. 2022. <https://www.thespruce.com/enkianthus-quinqueflorus-profile-3269363>
- “Enkianthus Quinqueflorus.” Plant Lust. Accessed 5 Feb. 2022. <https://www.plantlust.com/plants/1532/enkianthus-quinqueflorus/>
