Overview
Frangula californica (Eschsch.) Gray ssp. occidentalis (T.J. Howell) Kartesz & Gandhi, commonly known as Western Buckthorn or California coffeeberry, is a flowering plant species in the Rhamnaceae family. This evergreen shrub is native to western North America, particularly in California and the Pacific Northwest.
Description
Western Buckthorn or California coffeeberry is a slow-growing, drought-tolerant shrub with an average height of 6-10 feet. The plant has multiple stems and can grow up to 20 feet wide. It has thick, leathery, dark green leaves that are 2-4 inches long and glossy in appearance. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow in color, blooming in the summer and then producing fruit in the fall. The plant's fruit is a berry-like drupe that is red to black in color and contains one or two seeds.
Uses
The California coffeeberry has several uses, both medicinal and ornamental. It was used for centuries by Native Americans to alleviate a variety of ailments such as headaches, eye infections, and stomach illnesses. The plant contains high levels of antioxidants and compounds that are effective in inhibiting bacterial growth. It is also used as a natural dye to color wool and basketry. As an ornamental plant, Western Buckthorn is commonly used in residential and commercial landscaping. The plant's thick foliage and deep green leaves make it an ideal plant for hedging, and it is also used as a ground cover in drought-tolerant gardens.
Cultivation
California coffeeberry is very adaptable and can grow in a variety of soil conditions ranging from acidic to alkaline. This plant is drought-tolerant, making it ideal for hot and dry regions. It is tolerant of both full sun and partial shade. The plant is propagated through seeds or cuttings, and it is recommended to transplant young plants in the fall or winter. The plant's average lifespan is 15-20 years, with pruning necessary every few years to maintain its shape and size.
Light Requirements
Frangula californica ssp. occidentalis typically grows in direct sunlight or partial shade. It can tolerate full shade but may not grow as well or produce as many flowers and fruits. In hotter climates, partial shade can help prevent the plant from drying out too quickly.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to the western United States and is adapted to a range of temperatures. It can tolerate high temperatures but may need extra water to prevent drying out. In cooler temperatures, the plant may slow its growth and reduce its water needs. Overall, Frangula californica ssp. occidentalis is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Frangula californica ssp. occidentalis prefers well-draining soils that are moderately fertile. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they drain well. The plant is also tolerant of soils with a slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH. Although it can withstand periods of drought, regular watering can help promote healthy growth and flowering.
Cultivation
Frangula californica ssp. occidentalis, also known as Western California Buckthorn, is a small tree or large shrub that is native to California and southwestern Oregon. It is hardy to USDA zones 7-10 and can be grown in a variety of settings, from full sun to shade.
When planting this species, select a location with well-drained soil and adequate drainage. Dig a hole slightly deeper and wider than the root ball and amend the soil with organic matter. Water the plant deeply after planting and then once a week during the first growing season.
Watering Needs
Frangula californica ssp. occidentalis has moderate water requirements. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and less frequently during the dormant season. Watering should be reduced during periods of high humidity or rainfall.
It is important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering intervals, and provide adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
Fertilization of Frangula californica ssp. occidentalis is not necessary in most cases, as it can tolerate poor soils. However, the addition of organic matter can be beneficial during planting and can aid in root development.
If desired, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the early spring before the leaves emerge. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rate and frequency.
Pruning
Frangula californica ssp. occidentalis does not require regular pruning, but it can benefit from occasional shaping or thinning to control growth and promote fullness. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
To prune, remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Cut back any long or leggy branches to encourage bushier growth. Do not remove more than one-third of the plant at any one time.
Propagation of Frangula californica ssp. occidentalis
Frangula californica ssp. occidentalis, also known as California coffeeberry, is a dioecious shrub native to the western United States. It is an attractive plant, with shiny leaves and deep red or black berries. The plant can be propagated through different methods, including seeds, stem cuttings, and layering.Propagation via Seeds
Seeds are the easiest and most common method of propagating California coffeeberry. The seeds can be collected from ripe fruits in the fall season. Once you have collected the seeds, soak them in water for 24 hours to remove the fleshy outer layer. Then plant the seeds in a well-draining potting mix in a pot or seed tray. Keep the soil moist and in a warm place. The seeds may take up to 90 days to germinate, so be patient.Propagation via Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate California coffeeberry. Collect cuttings about 4 to 6 inches in length from a healthy plant during the dormant season. Make a clean cut at the base of the cutting and remove all the lower leaves. Then dip the cutting in rooting hormone powder and insert it into a well-draining potting mix. Keep the mix moist and in a shaded area. The cuttings may take several weeks to root, so be patient.Propagation via Layering
Layering is another propagation method for California coffeeberry. In this method, you bend a low-hanging branch down to the ground and cover part of it with soil or compost. After some time, roots will grow from the covered part of the branch. Once the plant has rooted, you can either cut the branch off from the parent plant and transplant it, or leave it on the parent plant to increase its size. Layering is generally a slower process, but it can lead to a larger and more established plant.Disease Management
Frangula californica (Eschsch.) Gray ssp. occidentalis (T.J. Howell) Kartesz & Gandhi is a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, there are certain diseases that can affect it, such as:
- Leaf spot: This disease causes circular or irregular brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and destroy them. Avoid overhead irrigation and watering late in the day to prevent the leaves from being wet overnight.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, remove the infected parts and apply a fungicide according to the instructions on the label.
- Rust: This fungal disease causes small reddish-brown spots on the leaves, which eventually turn black. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and destroy them. Avoid watering the leaves, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Pest Management
Frangula californica (Eschsch.) Gray ssp. occidentalis (T.J. Howell) Kartesz & Gandhi is also relatively pest-resistant. However, there are certain pests that can affect it, such as:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests spin webs on the leaves and suck the juices from the plant. To manage spider mites, rinse the leaves with water and apply insecticidal soap according to the instructions on the label.
- Scale insects: These pests attach themselves to the stems and leaves and suck the sap from the plant. To manage scale insects, remove them with a soft-bristled brush and apply horticultural oil according to the instructions on the label.
- Caterpillars: These pests eat the leaves and can defoliate the plant if left untreated. To manage caterpillars, pick them off by hand or apply a biological insecticide such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) according to the instructions on the label.
