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Description
Ruscus Aculeatus, commonly known as Butchers Broom, is a perennial evergreen shrub that belongs to the family Asparagaceae. It is native to Europe, Western Asia, and Northwest Africa. The plant has a unique appearance with erect, leaf-like stems that are modified into flattened structures called cladodes. The cladodes are green and shiny, and they bear small white or yellowish flowers in the center. The plant also produces red berries that are poisonous to humans.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Ruscus |
| Species | Aculeatus |
Appearance
Ruscus Aculeatus is a low-growing shrub that can reach a height of up to 3 feet (90 cm). The plant has dark green, leathery leaves that are reduced to scales and spines. The true leaves are reduced to small, green scales that are located at the base of the cladodes. The cladodes are flattened, leaf-like structures that are about 0.4-2 inches (1-5 cm) long and 0.2-0.4 inches (0.5-1 cm) wide. They are arranged in whorls of three at the stem nodes. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and they are followed by bright red berries in the autumn.
Care Guide
Ruscus Aculeatus is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for growing and caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid over-watering, as this can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
- Soil: Ruscus Aculeatus prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can damage the leaves and cause them to yellow.
- Hardiness Zones: Ruscus Aculeatus is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ruscus Aculeatus is generally disease-resistant and pest-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot, which is caused by over-watering or poorly-draining soil. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry slightly between waterings.
Habitat
Ruscus Aculeatus is native to Europe, Western Asia, and Northwest Africa. It grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, hedgerows, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ruscus Aculeatus poisonous?
A: Yes, the red berries of Ruscus Aculeatus are poisonous to humans and animals.
Q: Can Ruscus Aculeatus tolerate direct sunlight?
A: Ruscus Aculeatus prefers partial shade to full shade but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Ruscus Aculeatus?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Ruscus Aculeatus?
A: Ruscus Aculeatus is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Related Plants
- Ruscus Hypoglossum
- Ruscus Microglossum
- Ruscus Racemosus
- Ruscus Colchicus
References
- “Ruscus Aculeatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287461.
- “Ruscus Aculeatus.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/3697/Ruscus-aculeatus/Details.
- “Butcher’s Broom: A Hardy Shrub With Surprising Benefits.” Gardening Know How. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/butchers-broom/butchers-broom-care.htm.
