Contents
1. Description
Osteomeles Schwerinae is a species of flowering plant in the Rosaceae family, also known as the Chinese bush cherry. It is native to China and was first described by the German botanist Max Schwerin in 1914. This shrub has a rounded shape and can grow up to 3 meters in height. It produces small white flowers in spring and early summer, followed by small dark red or black fruits in late summer and fall. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with serrated edges.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Osteomeles |
| Species | Osteomeles Schwerinae |
3. Appearance
Osteomeles Schwerinae is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 3 meters in height and 2 meters in width. It has a rounded shape with arching branches. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with serrated edges. They are alternate, simple, and ovate in shape, measuring approximately 5-10 cm in length and 3-5 cm in width. The flowers are small and white, with five petals and numerous stamens. They bloom in spring and early summer, usually in May and June. The fruits are small, dark red, or black, and measure approximately 6-8 mm in diameter. They ripen in late summer and fall.
4. Care Guide
Osteomeles Schwerinae is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some guidelines for caring for this shrub:- Water: Osteomeles Schwerinae prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. It is important not to overwater or allow the soil to become waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: This shrub does not require a lot of fertilizer. A balanced fertilizer applied in spring and fall should be sufficient.- Soil: Osteomeles Schwerinae prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand.- Sunlight: This shrub prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in poor flowering and fruiting.- Hardiness Zones: Osteomeles Schwerinae is hardy to USDA zones 7-9.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
Osteomeles Schwerinae is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing the plant to become weak and stunted. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Spider mites: These tiny insects can spin webs on the leaves and cause them to turn yellow and fall off. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems. It can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
6. Habitat
Osteomeles Schwerinae is native to China and is found in forests, thickets, and scrublands. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures and rainfall levels. It is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and parks, thanks to its attractive foliage, flowers, and fruits.
7. Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Osteomeles Schwerinae?A: Water this shrub moderately, and avoid overwatering or allowing the soil to become waterlogged.Q: When does Osteomeles Schwerinae bloom?A: This shrub blooms in spring and early summer, usually in May and June.Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Osteomeles Schwerinae?A: This shrub is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Osteomeles Schwerinae?A: This shrub is hardy to USDA zones 7-9.
9. Related Plants
– Osteomeles anthyllidifolia- Osteomeles schweriniae- Osteomeles subrotunda- Osteomeles tenuifolia- Osteomeles viscosa
10. References
– “Osteomeles Schwerinae” Missouri Botanical Garden- “Osteomeles Schwerinae” Plants of the World Online- “Osteomeles Schwerinae” Royal Horticultural Society- “Osteomeles Schwerinae” Dave’s Garden
