Xylosma Racemosum

Description

Xylosma Racemosum is a versatile evergreen shrub that belongs to the Flacourtiaceae family. This plant is native to China, where it is commonly known as “wu yuanzi.” It has an upright growth habit and can reach a height of 6-12 feet with a spread of 3-6 feet. Xylosma Racemosum features glossy green leaves and produces small, yellow-green flowers in late spring to early summer. This plant is often used as a hedge, screen, or specimen plant in landscapes.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Xylosma Racemosum has glossy green leaves that are ovate to elliptic in shape, with serrated margins. The leaves are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. In late spring to early summer, this plant produces small, yellow-green flowers that are followed by black or reddish-purple fruit. The fruit is 1/4 to 1/3 inch in diameter and contains a single seed.

Care Guide

Xylosma Racemosum is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for growing and caring for this plant:Water: Xylosma Racemosum prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water regularly, especially during the summer months.Fertilization: Feed Xylosma Racemosum with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer.Soil: This plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil. If your soil is heavy, amend it with organic matter like compost or peat moss.Sunlight: Xylosma Racemosum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in leggy growth.Hardiness Zones: Xylosma Racemosum is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Xylosma Racemosum is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

Habitat

Xylosma Racemosum is native to China, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, hillsides, and riverbanks. This plant is adaptable to a wide range of growing conditions and can tolerate drought, heat, and poor soil.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Xylosma Racemosum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Xylosma Racemosum can be grown in containers. Make sure the container has good drainage and use a high-quality potting mix.Q: Does Xylosma Racemosum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Xylosma Racemosum can attract birds and butterflies with its flowers and fruit.Q: How often should Xylosma Racemosum be pruned?
A: Xylosma Racemosum can be pruned in the late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size. Prune lightly to avoid removing too much foliage.Q: Is Xylosma Racemosum poisonous?
A: Xylosma Racemosum is not considered poisonous to humans or animals.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Xylosma Racemosum:

• Xylosma congestum
• Xylosma flexuosum
• Xylosma longifolium
• Xylosma orbiculare

References

• “Xylosma Racemosum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276758&isprofile=0&.
• “Xylosma Racemosum.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp517.
• “Xylosma Racemosum.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/xylosma.html.