Serissa Serissoides

Description

Serissa Serissoides is a small, evergreen shrub that is native to Southeast Asia. It is commonly known as the “snow rose” due to its delicate white flowers, which bloom continuously throughout the year. The plant has a compact, bushy growth habit and reaches a height of 1 to 3 feet. Serissa Serissoides is a popular choice for bonsai due to its small size and attractive appearance.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Serissa Serissoides has small, glossy green leaves that are oval in shape and arranged in pairs along the stems. The plant produces small, white, star-shaped flowers that are about 1 inch in diameter. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and bloom continuously throughout the year. Serissa Serissoides is a compact, bushy plant that can be trained into various shapes and sizes, making it a popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts.

Care Guide

Water: Serissa Serissoides prefers consistently moist soil, but it should not be waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every 2 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the winter months.

Soil: Serissa Serissoides prefers a well-draining, slightly acidic soil. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark is a good option.

Sunlight: Serissa Serissoides prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the leaves.

Hardiness Zones: Serissa Serissoides is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Common pests that can affect Serissa Serissoides include spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Serissa Serissoides is also susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.

Habitat

Serissa Serissoides is native to Southeast Asia, including China, Japan, and India. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions and prefers a warm, humid climate.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Serissa Serissoides tolerate cold temperatures?

A: No, Serissa Serissoides is only hardy in USDA zones 8-11 and cannot tolerate freezing temperatures.

Q: Can Serissa Serissoides be grown indoors?

A: Yes, Serissa Serissoides can be grown indoors as a houseplant as long as it receives bright, indirect light and is kept in a warm, humid environment.

Q: How often should Serissa Serissoides be pruned?

A: Serissa Serissoides can be pruned throughout the year to maintain its shape and size. However, it is best to avoid heavy pruning during the winter months.

Q: Can Serissa Serissoides be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes, Serissa Serissoides can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Root the cuttings in a well-draining soil mixture and keep them in a warm, humid environment until they are established.

Related Plants

• Serissa foetida
• Serissa japonica
• Serissa koreana
• Serissa lanuginosa

References

• “Serissa Serissoides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277191. Accessed 27 July 2021.
• “Serissa Serissoides.” Bonsai Empire, www.bonsaiempire.com/tree-species/serissa. Accessed 27 July 2021.
• “Serissa Serissoides.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, www.kew.org/wcsp/home.do. Accessed 27 July 2021.