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Description
Rhamnus Formosana, commonly known as Formosan Buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rhamnaceae family. It is native to Taiwan, where it grows in mountain forests and valleys. The plant has a moderate growth rate and can reach a height of 5 to 6 meters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rhamnales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Rhamnus |
Appearance
The leaves of Rhamnus Formosana are oval-shaped, glossy, and dark green in color. They measure around 5 to 10 cm in length and have serrated edges. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are greenish-yellow in color and bloom in early summer. The fruit of Rhamnus Formosana is a small, red or black berry that measures around 5 mm in diameter.
Care Guide
Rhamnus Formosana requires regular watering to maintain its growth. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9. It is recommended to fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhamnus Formosana is prone to infestations from scale insects, aphids, and spider mites. The plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and rust.
Habitat
Rhamnus Formosana is native to Taiwan, where it grows in mountain forests and valleys. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures and humidity levels.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Rhamnus Formosana poisonous?
A: Yes, the berries of Rhamnus Formosana are toxic if ingested.
Q: Can Rhamnus Formosana be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Rhamnus Formosana can be grown in a container, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: How often should I prune Rhamnus Formosana?
A: Rhamnus Formosana can be pruned in the winter or early spring to control its size and shape. It is recommended to remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: How tall does Rhamnus Formosana grow?
A: Rhamnus Formosana can reach a height of 5 to 6 meters.
Related Plants
- Rhamnus Alaternus
- Rhamnus Frangula
- Rhamnus Cathartica
References
- “Rhamnus Formosana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c196.
- “Rhamnus Formosana.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/3945/formosan-buckthorn.php.
- “Formosan Buckthorn.” UC IPM, www2.ipm.ucanr.edu/agriculture/landscape/formosan-buckthorn/.
