Description of Citharexylum brachyanthum (Gray) Gray
Citharexylum brachyanthum, also known as the Shortflower Fiddlewood, is a species of plant in the Verbenaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States, including Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
Common Names
Some common names for Citharexylum brachyanthum include Shortflower Fiddlewood, Narrowleaf Fiddlewood, and Bahama fiddlewood.
Uses
The Shortflower Fiddlewood produces small, fragrant flowers that attract a variety of butterflies and bees. The plant can also be used as a hedge or accent plant in landscaping.
Additionally, the bark and leaves of the Shortflower Fiddlewood have been used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory properties.
General Appearance
The Shortflower Fiddlewood is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a long, pointed shape that tapers to a sharp point. The plant produces small, pinkish-white flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer. The fruit is a small, brownish-black drupe that attracts birds.
The bark of the Shortflower Fiddlewood is smooth and gray, with vertical ridges that become more pronounced as the tree matures. The overall appearance of the plant is fairly uniform, with a symmetrical shape and dense foliage.
Light Requirements
Citharexylum brachyanthum prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and development. However, it can also tolerate shade but may not flower as profusely.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives well in warm temperatures with a minimum temperature of 15°C (60°F). It is best suited for USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9b to 11.
Soil Requirements
Citharexylum brachyanthum prefers well-drained soils that are moderately fertile and acidic to slightly alkaline. It can grow in sandy, loamy, and clay soils and requires a soil pH of about 5.5 to 7.5.
The plant can tolerate occasional periods of drought but prefers moist soils. It does not grow well in water-logged or poorly-drained soils which can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation
Citharexylum brachyanthum requires well-draining soil and a good amount of sunlight for optimal growth. It prefers a warm and humid climate and is suitable for USDA plant hardiness zones 9 to 11. It can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings, and young plants should be planted in spring or fall.
Watering
While Citharexylum brachyanthum prefers consistently moist soil, it is important not to overwater the plant. Watering once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil moisture, is sufficient. It is best to water deeply to encourage strong root growth and avoid shallow roots.
Fertilization
Fertilizing Citharexylum brachyanthum with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season can help promote healthy growth. Be cautious not to apply too much fertilizer, as it can burn the roots and damage the plant. It is important to follow the instructions provided on the fertilizer packaging and apply it according to the plant's needs.
Pruning
Citharexylum brachyanthum requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and encourage bushy growth. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring when the plant is dormant. Dead and damaged branches should be removed, and any crossing or rubbing branches should be cut back to the trunk or a lateral branch. Regular pruning can also help control the size of the plant.
Propagation of Citharexylum brachyanthum
Citharexylum brachyanthum can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and layering. Each method has its own advantages and drawbacks.
Seeds
Seeds are the easiest way to propagate Citharexylum brachyanthum. The seeds are small, oval, brown, and have papery wings. After the fruit ripens and falls, collect the seeds and remove the wings. Sow them in a well-draining soil mix, cover with a thin layer of soil, and keep moist. Germination usually occurs within two to four weeks. It is important to keep the soil moist until the seedlings have developed strong roots.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another way to propagate Citharexylum brachyanthum. Take cuttings of mature growth in Spring or Fall. Each cutting should have at least two nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom nodes and dip them in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist. Rooting usually occurs within 3-4 weeks. It is important to keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment, out of direct sunlight.
Layering
Layering is an easy method to propagate Citharexylum brachyanthum. Choose a low-lying branch and remove the leaves from the selected section. Bury the section of the branch underneath soil, securing it with a stake. Keep the soil moist and the branch will develop roots within a few months. Once the branch has developed strong roots, sever it from the main plant and transplant it to its new home.
Disease Management for Citharexylum brachyanthum
Citharexylum brachyanthum is a shrub that is not prone to many diseases. However, it is still important to be aware of potential diseases that may affect this plant.
One potential disease is powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that can affect the leaves of the plant. This disease is characterized by a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to regularly prune the plant to increase air circulation. Fungicides can also be used to manage this disease.
Another potential disease that can affect Citharexylum brachyanthum is root rot, which is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. To manage root rot, it is important to ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that the soil is well-draining.
Pest Management for Citharexylum brachyanthum
Similar to diseases, Citharexylum brachyanthum is not often affected by pests. However, some potential pests that may affect this plant include aphids and spider mites.
Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, which can cause the leaves to wilt and die. To manage aphids, the plant can be sprayed with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider mites are tiny pests that can spin webs on the plant and suck its sap, which can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites, the plant can be sprayed with water to dislodge them or with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
