Contents
Description
Heptacodium Miconioides, also known as Seven Son Flower, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the honeysuckle family. It is native to China but has been widely cultivated in different parts of the world. The plant can grow up to 20 feet in height and has a spread of 10-15 feet. The leaves are dark green and opposite, growing up to 6 inches in length. The flowers are small and white, blooming in clusters of seven in late summer to early fall. The plant is known for its attractive bark, which peels off in strips, revealing a mottled tan and gray surface underneath.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Heptacodium |
Appearance
Heptacodium Miconioides is a multi-stemmed shrub that grows into a small tree. It has an upright and spreading habit, with a rounded crown. The bark of the plant is smooth and gray, with raised lenticels. As the plant matures, the bark peels off in strips, revealing a mottled tan and gray surface underneath. The leaves are opposite, dark green, and have a pointed tip. The flowers of the plant are small and white, growing in clusters of seven, which give the plant its common name. The flowers bloom in late summer to early fall and are followed by small, round, and red fruits that persist into winter.
Care Guide
Heptacodium Miconioides is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is drought-tolerant but needs regular watering during the first year of planting to establish its root system. Fertilize the plant in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Heptacodium Miconioides is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Heptacodium Miconioides is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally suffer from aphid infestations or powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, ensure that the plant is grown in well-drained soil and receives adequate sunlight and air circulation.
Habitat
Heptacodium Miconioides is native to China, where it grows in open woodlands and along forest edges. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is well-suited for use as a specimen plant, hedge, or border.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall does Heptacodium Miconioides grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 20 feet in height.
Q: What is the blooming season of Heptacodium Miconioides?
A: The plant blooms in late summer to early fall.
Q: Is Heptacodium Miconioides drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, the plant is drought-tolerant but needs regular watering during the first year of planting to establish its root system.
Q: What is the hardiness zone of Heptacodium Miconioides?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Related Plants
- Lonicera fragrantissima
- Abelia grandiflora
- Buddleja davidii
- Caryopteris x clandonensis
- Clethra alnifolia
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing LLC.
- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Heptacodium miconioides. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/heptacodium-miconioides/
- University of Kentucky. (n.d.). Heptacodium miconioides. Retrieved from https://www.uky.edu/hort/Heptacodium-miconioides
