Frangula californica (Eschsch.) Gray ssp. crassifolia (Jepson) Kartesz & Gandhi
Frangula californica (Eschsch.) Gray ssp. crassifolia (Jepson) Kartesz & Gandhi, also known as California Buckthorn or Coffeeberry, is a species of plant native to California, Arizona, and the Mexican state of Baja California.
General Appearance
This plant is a shrub or tree that grows up to 10 meters tall in favorable conditions. It has a sprawling and open habit and branches that can grow in different directions, forming a dense and tangled thicket. The bark of the stem and old branches is gray, rough, and fissured. The leaves are simple, alternate, ovate to oblong, and leathery with wavy edges, and they measure 3-15 cm long and 2-7 cm wide.
The flowers of this plant appear from March to May, and they are small, greenish-white, and clustered together in axillary or terminal panicles. The fruits are drupes that mature from green to red or black from late summer to fall, about 8-12 mm in diameter.
Common Names
Frangula californica has several common names depending on the region, including California Buckthorn, Coffeeberry, California Coffeeberry, and California-Tea.
Uses
Traditionally, the Native Americans used the bark of this plant for medicinal purposes, such as treating constipation, stomach pains, and fevers. They also roasted and ground the fruits to make a drink that is similar to coffee, hence the name Coffeeberry.
Nowadays, this plant is used for its ornamental value in gardens or as a hedge. It is drought tolerant, and the foliage and fruits provide food and shelter for birds and other wildlife.
Light Requirements
Frangula californica ssp. crassifolia typically grows well in full to partial sun. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade will cause the plant to grow weak and leggy. In full sun, the plant produces more flowers and has a denser growth habit.
Temperature Requirements
This species of plant is native to California, where the climate is generally mild. It can survive temperatures as low as 20°F but grows best in temperatures ranging from 50-80°F. It is not recommended for areas that experience extreme temperature fluctuations.
Soil Requirements
Frangula californica ssp. crassifolia grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range between 6.0-7.5. It is also important that the soil is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged, as waterlogging can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Frangula californica ssp. crassifolia, commonly known as the California coffeeberry, is a tough, drought-tolerant, and evergreen shrub that is native to California. It prefers to grow in well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. This shrub is relatively low maintenance, making it a great choice for those new to gardening. When planting, choose a site that provides the shrub with enough sunlight. Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the plant's root ball. Place the plant in the hole and backfill it with a mixture of soil, compost, and sand. Water the plant immediately and then regularly for the first few weeks until the root system becomes established.Watering Needs
California coffeeberry requires regular watering when newly planted, but once it is established, it can withstand periods of drought. Watering during the summer season should be done twice a month, and during winter once a month should suffice. In areas with high temperatures and low humidity, more frequent watering is needed. It is important to let the soil dry out between watering sessions to avoid root rot.Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for California coffeeberry because it can thrive in poor soils. However, applying fertilizer annually can enhance the plant's growth rate. The best time to fertilize is in the spring, just before the new growth season. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, and spread it evenly around the plant's root zone. Be sure not to overfertilize as this can lead to excessive leaf growth and a compromised root system.Pruning
California coffeeberry has a naturally unruly growth habit, but pruning can promote denser growth and manage its shape. The best time to prune is after blooming in the late spring or early summer. Remove any dead, damaged, and crossing branches. If thinning is needed, prune up to one-third of the shrub's oldest branches. Avoid shearing the plant's tips as it can encourage regrowth that is aesthetically unpleasing.Propagation of Frangula californica (Eschsch.) Gray ssp. crassifolia (Jepson) Kartesz & Gandhi
Frangula californica (Eschsch.) Gray ssp. crassifolia (Jepson) Kartesz & Gandhi, commonly known as the Hoary coffeeberry, is a shrub found in the western United States. It is native to California, Arizona, and Oregon, where it grows in various habitats such as chaparral, woodland, and riparian areas.
Propagation of Frangula californica can be done through several methods, including seed propagation, stem-cutting propagation, and layering propagation.
Seed Propagation
Frangula californica can be propagated using its seeds. The seeds can be collected from mature fruits and sowed in a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be planted in a depth of about 1/8 inch and covered lightly with soil. The germination process takes about 2-5 months, and the young plants should be monitored for moisture levels and kept in partial shade until they are established.
Stem-cutting Propagation
Frangula californica can also be propagated using stem cuttings. Healthy stem sections of about 4-6 inches long and with several leaves are selected. The leaves are stripped off the bottom half of the cutting, and the stem is dipped in a rooting hormone. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. The rooting process takes about 4-6 weeks, after which the young plant is monitored for growth and transferred to a larger pot or a garden bed.
Layering Propagation
Layering propagation is another method that can be used to propagate Frangula californica. In this method, a low-growing branch is bent towards the ground and covered with soil. The covered section produces roots and can be detached from the mother plant and transplanted to a suitable location.
Disease Management
Frangula californica is susceptible to several diseases that may affect its growth and overall health. One common disease that may affect the plant is anthracnose. This fungal disease causes brown lesions on leaves and stem cankers, which may eventually lead to dieback of the plant. Leaf rust is another fungal disease that causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves, which may later turn into black pustules. To manage these diseases, it is essential to ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and provided with proper irrigation. Remove and destroy any infected plant material and avoid overhead irrigation to prevent the spread of spores. Also, applying fungicides may help control the spread of anthracnose and leaf rust.
Pest Management
Frangula californica is also susceptible to attacks by pests such as aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests may cause leaf curling, discoloration, and stunted growth of the plant. To manage these pests, it is essential to monitor the plant regularly and remove any infested leaves or plants. Encouraging natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can also help control the pest population. Applying insecticidal soap or neem oil may also help control some pests, but care must be taken not to damage beneficial insects or other wildlife in the area.
