Escallonia Shrub
The escallonia shrub is a flowering plant and a member of the escalloniaceae family. The evergreen escallonia shrub is sometimes referred to as "redclaw" and has thorns on its branches. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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The escallonia shrub is native to central and western South America. It was brought to Great Britain in the latter part of the 19th century, according to the Washington State University Extension website.
Definition
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Escallonia shrubs are classified as angiosperms. There are between 50 and 60 species in existence and they bloom most often in summer.
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Features
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The foliage of the escallonia shrub is a glossy, dark green. The plant blossoms with loose clusters of flowers that are pink, white or a reddish color and have a saucer-like shape.
Significance
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The escallonia shrub attracts important pollinators, such as bees, hummingbirds and butterflies.
As specimens, escallonia shrubs are used in garden settings in mixed borders. They are also used as windbreaks, screens and espaliers on building facades.
Considerations
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Escallonia shrubs grow best in USDA plant hardiness zones 8 and 9. With good drainage, the shrubs will tolerate all types of soil and are not prone to diseases.
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References
- Photo Credit flowering shrub. image by mdb from Fotolia.com