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Description
Gaylussacia Frondosa, commonly known as the Dangleberry, is a deciduous shrub belonging to the heath family. It is native to the eastern and south-central United States and typically grows in acidic soils in open woods, bogs, and swamps. The plant produces small, white or pink bell-shaped flowers in the spring, which give way to edible blue-black berries in the summer. The shrub typically grows up to 5 feet tall and 6 feet wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Gaylussacia |
Appearance
The Gaylussacia Frondosa shrub has a mounding growth habit with arching branches that create a dense and rounded form. The leaves are oval-shaped and measure up to 2 inches in length. They have a glossy green color on the top and a lighter green color on the bottom. In the fall, the leaves turn a beautiful reddish-orange color. The flowers are small and bell-shaped, measuring around ¼ inch in length. They bloom in clusters at the end of the branches and are typically white or pink with five petals. The fruit of the plant is a blue-black berry with a sweet taste and is around ¼ to ½ inch in diameter.
Care Guide
The Gaylussacia Frondosa plant prefers acidic soil with good drainage. It thrives in partial shade to full sun and requires moderate watering. It is recommended to water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant period. The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but a light application of an acidic fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth. The plant is hardy in zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Gaylussacia Frondosa plant is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by maintaining good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. The plant can also be attacked by pests such as spider mites, aphids, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
Habitat
The Gaylussacia Frondosa plant is native to the eastern and south-central United States and can be found growing in open woods, bogs, and swamps. It prefers moist, acidic soils and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q. Is Gaylussacia Frondosa a good plant for landscaping?
A. Yes, the plant has an attractive form and foliage and can be used for landscaping purposes.
Q. Are the berries of the Gaylussacia Frondosa plant edible?
A. Yes, the berries are edible and have a sweet taste.
Q. How often should I water my Gaylussacia Frondosa plant?
A. The plant prefers moderate watering, so water regularly during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant period.
Q. What is the hardiness zone for the Gaylussacia Frondosa plant?
A. The plant is hardy in zones 5-8.
Related Plants
- Gaylussacia Baccata
- Gaylussacia Brachycera
- Gaylussacia Dumosa
- Gaylussacia Mosieri
References
- “Gaylussacia Frondosa” by Missouri Botanical Garden: www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfinderdetails.aspx?kempercode=b672
- “Dangleberry” by Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=gafr4
- “Gaylussacia Frondosa” by North Carolina State University: www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/consumer/factsheets/shrubs/gaylussacia_frondosa.html
