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Description
Thenardia Floribunda, also known as Sierra Madre Mountain-Lilac, is a species of flowering plant in the family Oleaceae. It is native to the Sierra Madre Occidental in Mexico and is known for its beautiful blue-violet flowers that bloom in clusters. This plant can grow up to 30 feet tall and wide and is commonly used in landscaping and as an ornamental plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Thenardia |
Appearance
The Sierra Madre Mountain-Lilac is a large shrub or small tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall and wide. It has dark green, glossy leaves that are up to 6 inches long and 2 inches wide. The flowers are blue-violet and bloom in clusters that can be up to 6 inches long. The fruit is a small, round capsule that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
The Sierra Madre Mountain-Lilac is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Hardy in zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sierra Madre Mountain-Lilac is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, keep the plant clean and healthy and remove any affected leaves or branches as soon as you notice them.
Habitat
The Sierra Madre Mountain-Lilac is native to the Sierra Madre Occidental in Mexico, where it grows in mountainous areas at elevations of 4,500 to 7,000 feet. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate hot, dry weather.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Sierra Madre Mountain-Lilac a fast-growing plant?
A: Yes, it can grow up to 2 feet per year in ideal conditions.
Q: Can the Sierra Madre Mountain-Lilac tolerate frost?
A: No, it is not frost-tolerant and should be protected or brought indoors during cold weather.
Q: Does the Sierra Madre Mountain-Lilac attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Can the Sierra Madre Mountain-Lilac be pruned?
A: Yes, it can be pruned in the late winter or early spring to control its size and shape.
Related Plants
- Olea europaea (Olive Tree)
- Jasminum sambac (Arabian Jasmine)
- Syringa vulgaris (Common Lilac)
References
- “Thenardia Floribunda.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j920.
- “Thenardia Floribunda.” Plant Care Guide, www.plant-care.com/thenardia-floribunda.html.
- “Thenardia Floribunda – Sierra Madre Mountain-Lilac.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/sierra-madre-mountain-lilac/thenardia-floribunda.htm.
