Cartrema americana

Cartrema americana is a resilient shrub, thriving in the understory of southeastern US forests. It sports glossy, elliptical leaves that cluster on slender, gray-barked branches. Spring brings fragrant white flowers, attracting pollinators, followed by olive-like drupes that sustain local wildlife. Its hardiness against disease makes cartrema americana a reliable presence in its native woodlands.

Scientific classification

Species

Cartrema americana (Cartrema americana)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

4.5 m to 8 m

Plant Height

3 m to 4.5 m

Spread

Images of Cartrema americana

Quickly Identify Cartrema americana

Leathery leaves with rust-hued underside, 2-4.5 inches (5-11.5 cm) long.

Small, urn-shaped white flowers on previous year's growth, blooming in spring.

Dark blue drupes, olive-like, maturing in fall, essential wildlife food source.

Gray-brown bark with warty lenticels, moderately thick, no deep fissures.

Modestly-sized evergreen plant, 15-20 feet (4.6-6 meters) high, slender tree or shrub.

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Care Guide for Cartrema americana

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Cartrema americana prefers moderate moisture but is well-suited to drier conditions. Water every 1-2 weeks, ensuring soil is moist but not waterlogged. When grown outdoors, consider its ability to adapt to varying rainfall. It's resilient during the growing season, ideal for regions with intermittent rain.

Pruning: Prune cartrema americana in early spring to maintain shape and promote healthy foliage. Remove dead branches and thin crowded areas for better air circulation, while minimizing excessive pruning to reduce disease risk. Proper pruning enhances flowering and overall vigor, essential for this hardy plant.

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