Origin
Choisya dumosa (Torr.) Gray var. arizonica (Standl.) L. Benson is commonly known as Arizona or Mexican White Oak. This plant is a member of the Rutaceae family, which is native to the southwestern part of the United States, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Sonora, Mexico.
Common Names
The Arizona or Mexican White Oak plant has several common names, including white oak, Arizona choisya, Torrey's choisya, and Mexican boxwood.
Uses
The plant Choisya dumosa (Torr.) Gray var. arizonica (Standl.) L. Benson is commonly used for landscaping purposes, particularly as a hedge plant. It is also an attractive plant for bird watchers, as it provides habitat for different species of birds. The plant also has medicinal properties that the indigenous people of the Southwest have used for centuries. They believe that the leaves can treat coughs, colds, and stomach pain. However, it is essential to note that these claims have not been scientifically proven.
General Appearance
The Arizona or Mexican White Oak plant is a shrub that can grow up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide. It has slender leaves that are bright green, glossy, and lance-shaped. The leaves of the plant emit a distinct and pleasant aroma when crushed, which can be described as a spicy-citrus scent. The plant produces white or pink flowers that bloom in the late winter to early spring. These flowers attract butterflies and bees, making it an attractive option for pollinators. After the flowers, the plant produces a fruit that is a dry capsule containing seeds. The fruit is inedible but is an essential food source for different types of birds.
Light Requirements
Choisya dumosa var. arizonica prefers full sunlight but can tolerate some shade. However, it performs best in areas with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. In low-light conditions, the plant may develop spindly growth and produce fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to arid regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico and is adapted to hot and dry climates. It can withstand high temperatures, up to 110°F, and mild winter cold down to 10-15°F. However, prolonged exposure to temperatures below 20°F can damage or kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
Choisya dumosa var. arizonica prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral pH, between 6.0 and 7.5. Soil with poor drainage may cause root rot, so it is crucial to avoid overwatering or planting in areas with standing water. The plant is also adapted to soils with low organic matter and can tolerate dry, rocky, or sandy soils in its natural habitat.
Cultivation
Choisya dumosa (Torr.) Gray var. arizonica (Standl.) L. Benson, commonly known as Arizona Mexican orange, is a drought-tolerant, evergreen shrub that is native to western North America. It is best grown in USDA hardiness zones 7a through 9b.
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It can be propagated through stem cuttings or by seed, although the latter takes longer and may not produce identical plants.
Watering Needs
Arizona Mexican orange is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it will appreciate occasional deep watering during extended periods of drought. It is important to allow the soil to dry out between waterings to avoid root rot.
Fertilization
Arizona Mexican orange does not require heavy fertilization, but it can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth and decreased flower production.
Pruning
Pruning Choisya dumosa (Torr.) Gray var. arizonica (Standl.) L. Benson should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Trim back any dead or damaged branches, and use pruning shears to shape the plant as desired. Avoid pruning more than one-third of the plant's overall size at one time, as this can weaken the plant and reduce flowering.
Propagation of Choisya dumosa (Torr.) Gray var. arizonica (Standl.) L. Benson
Choisya dumosa (Torr.) Gray var. arizonica (Standl.) L. Benson is commonly known as Mexican False Palo Verde or Arizona tarbush. It is a sturdy and attractive evergreen shrub that is native to the southwestern region of the United States. This plant is well-known for its drought-tolerant features, which make it an excellent addition to gardens, landscapes, and even xeriscapes.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Choisya dumosa (Torr.) Gray var. arizonica (Standl.) L. Benson can be done through seeds. This method is suitable for individuals who are looking to experiment with growing a few plants. To proceed, collect seeds from matured pods from the plant, and soak them in water for about 24 hours. Prepare a growing medium of 1:1 mixture of compost and perlite, and sprinkle seeds on the surface of the soil. Firm the soil and cover with a thin layer of vermiculite before watering gently. Place the pot in a warm, brightly lit place, and within 3 to 4 weeks, the seeds should germinate.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is a more reliable method of growing the Choisya dumosa (Torr.) Gray var. arizonica (Standl.) L. Benson plant. This method encompasses layering, stem-cuttings and division of the plant root-ball.
Layering: Layering is a simple propagation method that involves bending a low hanging branch or stem of the plant and immobilizing it with soil or an anchor. Soon, the stem will develop roots and can be separated from the mother plant and transplanted.
Stem Cuttings: Stem-cuttings can be taken from the plant and rooted in a soilless mixture of vermiculite and sand to form new plants. Cut a 6-inch long piece of stem around June or July, remove the lower leaves, dip the cut end into rooting hormone, and press the cut end down into the prepared soil. Cover the pot with plastic to keep moisture and heat in place and grow roots in about three weeks
Division of Root-ball: If the plant is well established, divide it by carefully digging the root-ball into smaller pieces and transplanting the portions in different pots or gardens. This technique is ideal for a garden or landscape, where a dense cluster of the plant can become unmanageable.
Propagation of Choisya dumosa (Torr.) Gray var. arizonica (Standl.) L. Benson can be done through seed or vegetative propagation. Each method has its unique process, but with good maintenance, the plant will be aesthetically pleasing and rewarding to the gardener.
Disease Management:
Choisya dumosa var. arizonica is susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases. Here are some of the common diseases that may affect the plant, along with suggestions on how to manage them:
Canker
Canker is a common disease that can affect Choisya dumosa var. arizonica. It is caused by various fungi and bacteria that infect the bark and cambium layer of the plant, causing discolored and sunken areas. You can manage canker by pruning off the infected and dead branches and twigs and disposing of them properly. Avoid injuring the tree during pruning to prevent further infection.
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that generally manifests as small spots on the leaves, branches, and fruits of the plant. Infected leaves may curl or drop prematurely, and the spot may enlarge to form larger wounds. Fruits may become discolored, and in severe infections, the plant may die. You can manage anthracnose by removing the infected plant parts and improving the air circulation around the plant. Avoid overhead watering, as it can promote the growth and spread of fungi.
Powdery mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. It generally thrives in damp and humid conditions and weakens the plant by interfering with the photosynthesis process. You can manage powdery mildew by avoiding overhead watering and improving the ventilation in the growing area. You can also use a fungicide to control the outbreak.
Pest Management:
Chiosya dumosa var. arizonica may be susceptible to pest infestation, which can weaken the plant and destroy the flowers and fruits. Here are common pests that may affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are common pests that feed on the sap of plants and weaken them. They excrete honeydew, which can attract other insects and promote the growth of mold. You can manage aphids by using insecticidal soap or neem oil to spray the plant regularly. You can also release ladybugs near the plant, as they are a natural predator of aphids.
Scale insects
Scale insects are small pests with a protective shell that feeds on the sap of the plant. They may appear like bumps on the stem or leaves of the plant. You can manage scale insects by removing the affected parts of the plant and disposing of them properly. You can also use an insecticide to control the outbreak, but make sure to read the label and follow the instructions carefully.
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause discoloration and distortion of the leaves of the plant. They thrive in dry and dusty conditions and can multiply rapidly in warm weather. You can manage spider mites by spraying the plant with water to keep the foliage moist, using insecticidal soap or neem oil, or releasing predatory mites or lacewings around the plant.
