Forestiera Pubescens

Description

Forestiera Pubescens, also known as the Elbow Bush or Stretchberry, is a native shrub that can be found in the southern and eastern regions of North America. It is a deciduous plant that can grow up to 20 feet tall, but is typically smaller, ranging from 6 to 10 feet in height. The shrub is known for its ability to thrive in a variety of soil types and its adaptability to different conditions. It produces small, fragrant yellow flowers in the springtime, which are followed by small berry-like fruit in the fall.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Forestiera Pubescens shrub has an upright, spreading form with slender branches. The bark is grayish-brown and smooth, with small white dots. The leaves are simple, alternate, and deciduous, ranging from 1 to 3 inches in length. They are dark green on top and lighter green on the bottom, with a slightly rough texture. The shrub produces small, fragrant yellow flowers in the springtime, which are followed by small berry-like fruit in the fall that turn from green to black in color.

Care Guide

Forestiera Pubescens is a relatively low-maintenance shrub that is adaptable to a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips to help your shrub thrive:

Water

Water Forestiera Pubescens regularly during its first growing season to establish a deep root system. After that, it can tolerate some drought, but it is best to water it during prolonged dry spells.

Fertilization

Forestiera Pubescens does not require much fertilization, but you can give it a boost in the springtime with a balanced fertilizer.

Soil

The shrub is adaptable to a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.

Sunlight

Forestiera Pubescens can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, but it will produce more flowers and fruit in full sun.

Hardiness Zones

The shrub is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Forestiera Pubescens is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common problems:

Scale Insects

Scale insects can be a problem for Forestiera Pubescens, particularly on the stems and leaves. They can be treated with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.

Anthracnose

Anthracnose is a fungal disease that can cause leaf spotting and defoliation. It can be treated with a fungicide.

Habitat

Forestiera Pubescens is a versatile shrub that can grow in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, stream banks, and rocky slopes. It is often found in the understory of larger trees, where it can tolerate some shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Forestiera Pubescens drought tolerant?

A: While it can tolerate some drought, it is best to water the shrub during prolonged dry spells to ensure its health.

Q: How tall does Forestiera Pubescens typically grow?

A: The shrub can grow up to 20 feet tall, but it is typically smaller, ranging from 6 to 10 feet in height.

Q: What is the best soil type for Forestiera Pubescens?

A: The shrub is adaptable to a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Forestiera Pubescens?

A: The shrub is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.

Related Plants

• Forestiera Acuminata
• Forestiera Angustifolia
• Forestiera Ligustrina

References

• University of Florida IFAS Extension. (2021). Native Shrubs for North Florida Landscapes. edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ep108
• Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Forestiera pubescens. missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d821
• Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. (2021). Elbowbush. agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/browse/featured-solutions/landscaping-and-gardening/elbowbush/