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Description
Kolkwitzia Amabilis Pink Cloud, also known as the Beautybush, is a deciduous shrub native to China. It is a member of the Caprifoliaceae family and is known for its showy pink blooms that appear in late spring to early summer. The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and 10 feet wide, making it a great choice for a specimen plant or a hedge. The Beautybush is also prized for its attractive bark, which peels to reveal a cinnamon-colored layer underneath.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Kolkwitzia |
Appearance
The Kolkwitzia Amabilis Pink Cloud has arching stems that are covered in small, green leaves. The leaves are ovate and have a serrated edge. The plant’s most striking feature is its pink, bell-shaped flowers that are borne in clusters along the length of the stems. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and attract bees and butterflies. After the flowers fade, they are replaced by small, brown capsules that contain the plant’s seeds. In the fall, the plant’s leaves turn a beautiful shade of yellow before dropping.
Care Guide
Water: The Beautybush prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering.Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The Beautybush prefers slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The Beautybush is hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Kolkwitzia Amabilis Pink Cloud is relatively pest and disease-free, but can be susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot. Regular pruning can help prevent these diseases from taking hold. Aphids and spider mites can also be a problem, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The Beautybush is native to China, but has been widely cultivated in other parts of the world. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is tolerant of drought, but prefers regular watering.
Question and Answer
Q: How fast does the Kolkwitzia Amabilis Pink Cloud grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and 10 feet wide, but grows at a moderate rate of around 12-18 inches per year.Q: Does the Beautybush require pruning?
A: Yes, regular pruning can help keep the plant healthy and prevent disease.Q: Can the Beautybush be grown in containers?
A: While the plant can be grown in containers, it is not recommended as it can quickly outgrow them.Q: Does the Kolkwitzia Amabilis Pink Cloud attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s sweetly scented flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Kolkwitzia Amabilis Dream Catcher
- Kolkwitzia Amabilis Maradco
- Kolkwitzia Amabilis Rosea
- Kolkwitzia Amabilis Taiping Shan
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Dirr’s encyclopedia of trees and shrubs. Timber Press.
- Huxley, A., & Griffiths, M. (1992). The new Royal Horticultural Society dictionary of gardening. Macmillan Press.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Kolkwitzia amabilis. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281045&isprofile=0&
