Contents
Description
Exochorda Racemosa, commonly known as the Pearl Bush, is a deciduous flowering shrub that belongs to the family Rosaceae. Native to China, this beautiful shrub is widely cultivated in gardens and parks for its stunning white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The plant can grow up to 8 feet tall and 10 feet wide, making it a perfect choice for creating a hedge or border.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Exochorda |
Appearance
Exochorda Racemosa has a dense, upright habit and produces oval-shaped, dark green leaves that turn yellow in the fall. The plant’s most striking feature is its white flowers, which bloom in clusters along the branches. The flowers are about 1 inch in diameter and have five petals that are slightly cupped, giving them a pearl-like appearance. The blooms last for several weeks and are followed by small, brown fruit capsules that contain tiny seeds.
Care Guide
Exochorda Racemosa is a hardy shrub that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping it healthy and happy:- Water: The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly during the growing season, but don’t overwater.- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in midsummer.- Soil: The plant grows best in loamy, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.- Sunlight: Exochorda Racemosa prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Exochorda Racemosa is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it may occasionally be attacked by aphids, spider mites, or scale insects. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Exochorda Racemosa is native to western China, where it grows in mountainous regions at elevations of 2,000 to 5,000 feet. It prefers cool, moist climates and is often found growing in forest clearings and along stream banks.
Question and Answer
Q: When should I prune Exochorda Racemosa?
A: Prune the plant immediately after flowering to avoid cutting off next year’s blooms.Q: Can Exochorda Racemosa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers if provided with adequate space and drainage.Q: Does Exochorda Racemosa attract bees?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators.Q: Is Exochorda Racemosa deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is generally resistant to deer browsing.
Related Plants
– Exochorda Korolkowii- Exochorda Serratifolia- Exochorda Giraldii
References
– Dirr, Michael A. Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press, 2016.- “Exochorda Racemosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d510. Accessed 17 August 2021.- “Exochorda Racemosa.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/21813/exochorda-racemosa/details. Accessed 17 August 2021.
