Overview of Viburnum recognitum Fern. var. alabamense McAtee
Viburnum recognitum Fern. var. alabamense McAtee, also known as the Alabama viburnum or southern black Haw, is a shrub native to southeastern United States, specifically Alabama and Georgia. This plant is a member of the Adoxaceae family and is closely related to other viburnum species like the American cranberry bush.
General Appearance of Viburnum recognitum Fern. var. alabamense McAtee
The Alabama viburnum is a deciduous shrub that typically grows up to ten feet tall with an equally wide spread. The plant usually features a round and dense form with upright branches that are initially green but gradually turn brown as the plant matures. The leaves of this plant are oval or elliptical in shape and feature serrated edges. The foliage is a medium to dark green, and in the fall, the leaves turn an attractive reddish-purple color.
The plant produces clusters of white flowers in May, followed by bright red berries which ripen in the fall. These berries are not edible and can cause mild stomach upsets if ingested. The plant's bark is gray-brown and features raised, elongated lenticels that distinguish it from other viburnums.
Common Uses of Viburnum recognitum Fern. var. alabamense McAtee
The Alabama viburnum is a popular ornamental plant in landscaping due to its attractive appearance, ease of cultivation, and toleration of various soil, light, and moisture conditions. Its dense growth habit makes it ideal for hedges, screens and borders. It is also attractive to birds who feed on the berries, making it a great addition to bird gardens. Despite the fact that the plant is ornamental, there are no known medicinal or edible uses for the Alabama viburnum.
Light Requirements:
The Viburnum recognitum Fern. var. alabamense McAtee typically thrives in full sunlight to partial shade. It requires ample sunlight exposure to produce flowers. At the same time, it needs protection from extreme heat to avoid scorching leaves and wilting flowers.
Temperature Requirements:
The Viburnum recognitum Fern. var. alabamense McAtee grows best in moderate temperatures. It tends to tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers a mild-to-warm environment. The average optimal temperature for the plant is between 60°F and 80°F. Extreme temperatures may cause damage or slow down the growth rate. Therefore, it is important to keep the temperatures stable and within optimal range.
Soil Requirements:
The Viburnum recognitum Fern. var. alabamense McAtee thrives in a moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It thrives in slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. The plant also needs a soil that is capable of retaining moisture, as it requires consistent watering to maintain optimum growth. Sandy loam is the preferred type of soil as it promotes good drainage while still retaining moisture.
Other Growth Conditions:
In addition to the above-mentioned growth conditions, the Viburnum recognitum Fern. var. alabamense McAtee requires occasional fertilization for optimum growth. Fertilization should be done in early spring before active growth starts. Additionally, the plant requires regular pruning to keep its shape and promote air circulation. Proper pruning should be done in the early spring when the plant is still dormant.
Cultivation Methods
The Viburnum recognitum Fern. var. alabamense McAtee is a beautiful plant that is easy to grow. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. It is best to plant the shrub in the early spring when the soil is moist and cool. When planting, make sure to dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
Watering Needs
Viburnum recognitum Fern. var. alabamense McAtee requires consistently moist soil during the growing season. You should water your plant deeply once a week, especially during times of drought or extreme heat. Avoid excessive watering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
You should fertilize your Viburnum recognitum Fern. var. alabamense McAtee once a year in early spring. Use a slow-release fertilizer to provide nutrients to the plant over a longer period. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the dosage and application method.
Pruning
The Viburnum recognitum Fern. var. alabamense McAtee is a low-maintenance shrub that requires minimal pruning. You should prune the shrub in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant. Avoid pruning too much, as this can limit its growth and affect its health.
Propagation of Viburnum recognitum Fern. var. alabamense McAtee
Viburnum recognitum Fern. var. alabamense McAtee, commonly known as Alabama arrowwood, can be propagated using several methods:
1. Seed propagation
Seeds can be collected from the plant when they are mature and sowed in a potting mix. It is important to keep the soil moist and maintain a warm temperature of around 20-25°C. The seeds typically germinate in 4-6 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to around 4 inches, they can be transplanted to bigger containers or outdoors.
2. Softwood cutting propagation
Softwood cuttings should be taken in early summer from the current season's growth. Cut 4- to 6-inch sections from the tips of the stem, remove the leaves from the bottom half, and put the cuttings in a rooting hormone. Place the cuttings in a potting mix and keep the soil damp. Cover the container with a clear plastic bag or a glass jar to maintain humidity. The cuttings should root in four to six weeks. Once rooted, transplant them to bigger containers or outdoors.
3. Hardwood cutting propagation
Hardwood cuttings should be taken during the winter dormant season when the plant has lost its leaves. Cut 6- to 8-inch sections from the previous year's growth, dip the bottom end in rooting hormone, and place them in a potting mix. Cover the container with a clear plastic bag or a glass jar to maintain humidity. The cuttings should root in 4-6 weeks. Once rooted, transplant them to bigger containers or outdoors.
Regardless of the method used, it is important to keep the newly propagated plants moist and in a protected area until established.
Disease Management
Viburnum recognitum Fern. var. alabamense McAtee is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to many diseases. However, there are a few diseases that may affect this plant. The most common disease is fungal leaf spot, which causes circular spots on the leaves. This can be managed by removing and destroying affected leaves, improving air circulation, and avoiding overhead watering. Powdery mildew can also occur on the leaves, which can be managed by ensuring adequate air circulation and avoiding watering at night. Root rot can be a problem if the plant is grown in poorly drained soil or overwatered. This can be managed by improving soil drainage, avoiding overwatering, and properly spacing plants to allow for good air flow.
Pest Management
Viburnum recognitum Fern. var. alabamense McAtee is also generally not prone to many pests. However, there are a few pests that may be attracted to this plant. Aphids are the most common pest, and can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them, or by treating with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Spider mites can also be a problem, and can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Scale insects may also infest this plant, and can be managed by physically removing them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
