Jesuit's bark (Iva frutescens)

Jesuit's bark

Also known as: Bigleaf Marsh Elder, High-tide bush, Maritime marsh-elder

Jesuit's bark (Iva frutescens) is a perennial deciduous shrub that will grow to 3.5 m tall. Commonly found growing in salt marshes it is salt-tolerant and thrives in full sun. It requires consistently moist soil. It blooms from summer to fall with greenish-white blossoms that grow along a flower stem.

Scientific classification

Species

Jesuit's bark (Iva frutescens)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

3.5 m

Plant Height

1.2 m to 2.5 m

Spread

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Jesuit's bark

Attributes of Jesuit's bark

Growth Rate

Exhibiting a moderate growth rate, jesuit's bark manifests notable development during Spring and Summer. This pace accelerates leaf production, contributing to the plant's robust stature. Observable changes include enhanced foliage density and the gradual increase in height. However, the growth rate may be seasonally variable, subtly slowing during late Summer. The unique growth speed and seasonality contribute to jesuit's bark's distinctive rugged charm, demonstrating a fascinating interplay between nature's rhythm and botanical adaptation.

Distribution of Jesuit's bark

Distribution Map

Jesuit's bark, a plant species predominantly found in coastal areas, thrives in its native range along the eastern shores of North America. It has extended its presence as an introduced species to certain regions in Western Europe, adapting to similar coastal environments there.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Saline marshes and shores

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Jesuit's bark

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Jesuit's bark thrives in coastal environments, requiring consistent moisture and tolerating brackish conditions. It needs weekly watering to maintain balance without oversaturation. Robust and salt spray resistant, jesuit's bark is best grown outdoors, handling varying soil moisture typical in coastal climates.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, jesuit's bark requires quarterly application of a balanced nutrition fertilizer. Use a granular, slow-release formula, adjusting for seasonal variations. Lighter applications are needed in winter. Use gloves, follow label rates, and water soil post-application to maximize absorption and ensure healthy growth.

Pruning: Jesuit's bark thrives in coastal areas and requires pruning to eliminate dead branches and enhance bushiness. Early to late spring is ideal for pruning, promoting healthier growth. Caution is needed to avoid over-pruning, which could stress the plant.

Propagation: Jesuit's bark, a resilient marsh-dwelling species from the Asteraceae family, thrives in coastal environments. Successful propagation involves direct seed sowing in sandy, salty substrates, ensuring good seed-to-soil contact and adequate moisture without waterlogging. Patience is essential, as germination may be slow but leads to healthy growth.

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