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Description
Kolkwitzia Amabilis, also known as the Beautybush, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family. This plant is native to China and was introduced to the United States in the early 1900s. The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and 12 feet wide. It produces clusters of pink, bell-shaped flowers in spring and early summer, which are followed by small, oval-shaped fruit. The leaves are dark green and grow up to 3 inches long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Kolkwitzia |
Appearance
The Beautybush is a fast-growing shrub that can reach up to 10 feet tall and 12 feet wide. It has an arching habit, with branches that grow upward and outward. The leaves are dark green and grow up to 3 inches long. The plant produces clusters of pink, bell-shaped flowers in spring and early summer, which are followed by small, oval-shaped fruit. The flowers are very fragrant and attract bees and butterflies. The plant is deciduous, which means it loses its leaves in the fall.
Care Guide
To ensure the Beautybush grows healthy and strong, here are some care tips:
Water
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. You can also add a layer of compost around the base of the plant to improve soil fertility.
Soil
The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, add compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Beautybush is generally not prone to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and powdery mildew. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of pests or diseases and treat them promptly if necessary.
Habitat
The Beautybush is native to China and is commonly found in forests, thickets, and scrublands. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Beautybush deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the Beautybush is deer-resistant.
Q: When should I prune my Beautybush?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: Can I propagate Beautybush?
A: Yes, you can propagate Beautybush through softwood cuttings taken in early summer or hardwood cuttings taken in late fall or winter.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Beautybush?
A: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Caprifoliaceae family include:
- Abelia
- Caprifolium
- Lonicera
- Sambucus
References
- “Kolkwitzia amabilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279236&isprofile=1&basic=kolkwitzia.
- “Kolkwitzia amabilis.” North Carolina State University. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/kolkwitzia-amabilis/.
- “Kolkwitzia amabilis.” The Morton Arboretum. https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/beautybush.
