Contents
Description
Iva Frutescens, commonly known as marsh-elder or high-tide bush, is a shrub that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and can be found along the eastern coast from Maine to Texas. Iva Frutescens can grow up to 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide. It has green leaves that are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The plant produces small and inconspicuous flowers that are yellow-green in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Iva |
Appearance
Iva Frutescens is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide. The plant has green leaves that are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are lance-shaped with serrated edges. Iva Frutescens produces small and inconspicuous flowers that are yellow-green in color. The flowers bloom in late summer and early fall. The plant produces small, dry, one-seeded fruits that are dispersed by wind.
Care Guide
Iva Frutescens is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for Iva Frutescens:
- Water: Iva Frutescens prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought. Water the plant regularly during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Iva Frutescens does not require fertilization but can benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: Iva Frutescens prefers well-drained soil but can tolerate a range of soil types.
- Sunlight: Iva Frutescens prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Iva Frutescens is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Iva Frutescens is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect Iva Frutescens:
- Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly-drained soil can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown, circular spots on the leaves.
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to yellow and distort.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the undersides of the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off.
Habitat
Iva Frutescens is native to North America and can be found along the eastern coast from Maine to Texas. It grows in wetlands, marshes, and along the edges of streams and rivers. It can tolerate brackish water and is commonly found in salt marshes and estuaries.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Iva Frutescens toxic?
A: No, Iva Frutescens is not toxic to humans or animals.
Q: Can Iva Frutescens be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Iva Frutescens can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s size.
Q: Does Iva Frutescens attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Iva Frutescens can attract birds and butterflies with its small flowers and seeds.
Q: How often should Iva Frutescens be pruned?
A: Iva Frutescens does not require regular pruning but can be pruned to maintain its shape or size.
Related Plants
- Iva axillaris
- Iva ciliata
- Iva imbricata
- Iva xanthifolia
References
- “Iva frutescens (L.) L. – Plants of the World Online.” Kew Science, Kew Science, 2022, plants.jstor.org/compilation/iva.frutescens.
- “Iva frutescens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, Missouri Botanical Garden, 2022, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b525.
- “Iva frutescens Marsh Elder PFAF Plant Database.” Plants For A Future, Plants For A Future, 2022, pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Iva+frutescens.
