Paxistima

Description

Paxistima is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the family Celastraceae. It is native to North America and is known for its dense, compact form and dark green foliage. This plant is commonly used in landscaping as a foundation plant, hedge, or border plant.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Paxistima has a dense, compact form with an average height of 3-6 feet and a spread of 4-8 feet. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and ovate in shape. The flowers are small, inconspicuous, and greenish-yellow in color. The fruit is a small capsule that contains seeds. Overall, Paxistima has a neat and tidy appearance that makes it an excellent choice for landscaping.

Care Guide

• Water: Paxistima prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions.
• Fertilization: Feed Paxistima with a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins.
• Soil: Paxistima prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend heavy clay soil with organic matter to improve drainage.
• Sunlight: Paxistima prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid planting in areas with intense direct sunlight.
• Hardiness Zones: Paxistima is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Paxistima is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, scale insects, or leaf spot. These issues can be treated with insecticides or fungicides, respectively.

Habitat

Paxistima is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and rocky slopes. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial to full shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Paxistima deer resistant?

A: Yes, Paxistima is generally deer resistant due to its dense foliage and unpalatable taste.

Q: When is the best time to prune Paxistima?

A: Prune Paxistima in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Q: Can Paxistima be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Paxistima can be grown in containers as long as the container has adequate drainage and the plant is provided with the appropriate soil and fertilization.

Q: Does Paxistima attract pollinators?

A: The flowers of Paxistima are small and inconspicuous, so it is not a significant attractant for pollinators.

Related Plants

• Celastrus orbiculatus
• Celastrus scandens
• Celastrus angulatus
• Celastrol

References

• “Paxistima.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c700. Accessed 4 May 2021.
• “Paxistima canbyi.” Plant Database, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PACA. Accessed 4 May 2021.
• “Paxistima.” Plant Information Online, University of Minnesota Libraries, plants.jstor.org/search?query=Paxistima. Accessed 4 May 2021.