Sweet almond bush - Aloysia virgata (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Sweet almond bush

Also known as: Incense bush

The sweet almond bush isn’t actually an almond, but gets its name from its almond-like fragrance. It is a prized garden shrub because of its fragrant, long blooming flowers. Attractive to butterflies and bees, this plant can be grown in containers or allowed to spread out in the beds and borders of cottage gardens.

Scientific classification

Species

Sweet almond bush (Aloysia virgata)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

1.5 m to 4.5 m

Plant Height

90 cm to 2.5 m

Spread

Evergreen, Deciduous

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Sweet almond bush

Distribution of Sweet almond bush

Distribution Map

Sweet almond bush is native to the central part of South America with its presence primarily in the Andean region. This species has also been introduced and cultivated in parts of Southeast Asia and the Caribbean, where it thrives in similar climates. While initially found in its native habitat, the adaptability of sweet almond bush has allowed it to become established in these new regions, expanding its range beyond its indigenous borders.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Sweet almond bush

Multi-stemmed with four-sided shape, early hairiness, and later lenticels aiding gas exchange.

Small white bell to salver-shaped flowers in drooping spike inflorescences with fruity scent.

Elliptic leaves with toothed margins, oppositely arranged, tomentose texture, and distinctive veins.

Capsule fruit with round shape and hard, brown exterior, splitting open at maturity for seed dispersal.

Robust woody structure, rapid growth to 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters), with fragrant white flowers.

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Care Guide for Sweet almond bush

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Native to subtropical regions, sweet almond bush prefers humidity and moderate moisture, thriving with watering every 1-2 weeks. It needs well-draining soil to avoid waterlogging, especially during the growing season, and can tolerate brief dryness. Ideal for outdoor cultivation due to its aromatic foliage.

Fertilize: To ensure healthy growth of sweet almond bush, apply balanced NPK fertilizers every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, using half-strength to prevent overload. Adjust feeding frequency in fall and winter. Incorporate slow-release fertilizers and water thoroughly after application for better nutrient absorption.

Pruning: Sweet almond bush features fragrant white flower spikes and thrives with spring pruning. Techniques involve removing dead branches and thinning for shape and air circulation. Pruning enhances growth and flowering, but avoid cutting more than one-third to prevent stress, ensuring a healthy shrub.

Propagation: Sweet almond bush is best propagated through cuttings from healthy semi-hardwood stems, approximately 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) long, with leaf nodes exposed. Use rooting hormone and well-draining soil. Maintain consistent moisture and provide indirect light for optimal root development.

Repotting: Repot sweet almond bush in early spring, selecting a container one size larger to support its bushy growth up to 5 feet. Ideal repotting is every 2-3 years. After repotting, position sweet almond bush in a sunny location and water regularly. Use a well-draining pot to prevent root rot.

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