This genus of about 7 species of deciduous shrubs belongs to the Oleaceae family and occurs mainly in open woodland in eastern Asia, with the exception of 1 species, which derives from southeastern Europe. The simple, narrow, blunt-toothed leaves grow in opposite pairs on the softwooded stems, which branch upwards from the ground. The starry bright yellow flowers are a cheerful sight in early spring, appearing as they do sometimes before the season's new leaves. Some species have slightly hanging branches that can be trained over a support to form an attractive wall plant. The bright blossoms are believed to herald the beginning of spring in China and Japan, and as such are highly valued.
CULTIVATION
These frost-hardy plants are easy to grow. They need an open sunny position, a well-drained fertile soil, as well as adequate water in summer and freezing temperatures in winter to encourage flowering. Propagate from soft-tip cuttings in summer or hardwood cuttings in winter.
Top Tip
Flowers are borne on the over-wintered year-old shoots; remove order shoots when flowering has finished to make room for new shoots that arise from the base.
CULTIVATION
These frost-hardy plants are easy to grow. They need an open sunny position, a well-drained fertile soil, as well as adequate water in summer and freezing temperatures in winter to encourage flowering. Propagate from soft-tip cuttings in summer or hardwood cuttings in winter.
Top Tip
Flowers are borne on the over-wintered year-old shoots; remove order shoots when flowering has finished to make room for new shoots that arise from the base.
No comments:
Post a Comment