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Description
Quintinia Serrata, commonly known as the aromatic quintinia, is a shrub native to New Zealand. It belongs to the family Escalloniaceae and is known for its glossy green leaves and fragrant flowers. The plant can grow up to 3 meters tall and has a dense, bushy growth habit.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukaryota |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Spermatophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Escalloniales |
Family | Escalloniaceae |
Genus | Quintinia |
Appearance
The aromatic quintinia has glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and have serrated edges. The leaves are 3-5 cm long and 1-3 cm wide. The plant produces small, fragrant flowers that are white or pinkish in color and appear in clusters from late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by small, black berries.
Care Guide
To care for the aromatic quintinia, it is important to provide it with well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water regularly during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The aromatic quintinia is generally pest and disease resistant, but it can be affected by scale insects, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap. It may also be affected by powdery mildew or leaf spot, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
The aromatic quintinia is native to New Zealand and can be found in forests and scrubland. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate some drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the aromatic quintinia a fast-growing plant?
A: No, the plant grows at a moderate pace.
Q: Can the aromatic quintinia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with well-drained soil and adequate water.
Q: Does the aromatic quintinia require pruning?
A: The plant does not require pruning, but it can be pruned to maintain its shape or size.
Q: Is the aromatic quintinia toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that the plant is toxic to pets, but it is always best to keep pets away from plants.
Related Plants
- Quintinia acutifolia
- Quintinia serrata ‘Nana’
- Quintinia verdonii
References
- “Quintinia Serrata.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/quintinia-serrata/
- “Quintinia Serrata.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/23153/i-Quintinia-serrata-i/Details
- “Aromatic Quintinia.” Oregon State University. https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/quintinia-serrata