Exochorda macrantha the bride is a beautiful, flowering plant. It is native to China and has been grown in gardens for centuries. The plant gets its name from its white, fragrant flowers which resemble wedding dresses. The bride plant is easy to grow and care for, making it a popular choice for gardens.
Alternative name
- Macrantha bride
- Ghost plant
- Wedding bells
- White bride
- Lady's tresses
Basic info
- Exochorda macrantha is a species of flowering plant in the rose family, Rosaceae.
- It is native to China, and is known as bái lian in Mandarin Chinese.
- It grows to 2-4 m tall.
- The leaves are oblong to lanceolate, 6-12 cm long and 2-4 cm broad.
- The flowers are white, borne in loose racemes 5-10 cm long.
- The fruit is a dark purple drupe.
- The species is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in temperate regions.
- hybridizes readily with other members of the genus, including the closely related Exochorda racemosa.
- It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
- It is sometimes known as "the Bride's Flower", due to its association with weddings in Chinese culture.
How to Grow
- For exochorda macrantha the bride, first step is to purchase healthy plants from a reputable nursery or online retailer. Be sure to check the roots and stems for signs of pests or disease.
- Once you have your plants, it is time to prepare the planting site. Choose an area that receives full sun to partial shade and has well-drained soil.
- Before planting, amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or peat moss. This will help the plant roots to establish themselves more easily.
- Once the soil is prepared, it is time to plant your exochorda macrantha the bride. Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the plants root ball.
- Carefully remove the plant from its container and loosen the roots before placing it in the hole.
- Backfill the hole with soil, being sure to firm it around the plant.
- Water the plant deeply immediately after planting.
- Apply a thin layer of mulch around the plant, being sure to keep it away from the stem. This will help keep the roots cool and moist.
- Water the plant regularly during the first growing season to help it establish a strong root system.
- Fertilize the plant annually with a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-
Related plant:
Exochorda Macrantha
Considering the Soil
About soil condition, exochorda macrantha the bride prefers loose, well-drained soils, and can tolerate some degree of drought once established. It appreciates a little organic matter in the soil to help retain moisture. This plant does not like wet soils and will not tolerate flooding.
About light
Like the other exochorda species, exochorda macrantha the bride requires a good amount of sunlight to thrive. 6 hours of sunlight is ideal, but it can tolerate up to 8 hours of sun per day. If you live in an area with intense sunlight, you may want to provide some afternoon shade for your plant.
Ideal Temperature
The temperature conditions that are ideal for the growth of Exochorda macrantha are temperatures that are between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant is also sensitive to light and will prefer to grow in shady or part shade conditions.
Humidity Level
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is soil that is evenly moist but well-drained. The plant does not like to be kept too wet or too dry. It is best to water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch. If the plant is kept too wet, the leaves will turn yellow and drop off.
Fertilizer Requirement
About fertilizer, this plant prefers something light such as an organic compost. Be sure to work it into the root zone well. As for watering, the key is to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. To help with drainage, consider adding some organic matter to the planting hole.
Light requirement
Pruning your exochorda macrantha the bride regularly will ensure it stays healthy and blooms for many years to come. When pruning, be sure to remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any that are crossing or rubbing against each other. Doing so will encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming overgrown.
About Propagating
Propagation for Exochorda macrantha is usually done through suckering or softwood cuttings in late spring. Suckers can be removed from the base of the plant and transplanted to another location. Softwood cuttings should be taken from new growth and Dip the cut ends of the stems in rooting hormone powder before planting them in a moistened soilless mix. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment and place it in bright, indirect light. Keep the soil moist but not soggy and wait for the cuttings to take root, which usually takes 4-6 weeks.
Growth Rate
Usually, the plant growth rate is about 1 to 2 feet per year. However, under the right conditions, some plants have been known to grow as much as 5 feet in a single year. The key to achieving this fast growth rate is to provide the plant with plenty of water and nutrients. Additionally, the plant should be in a location that receives plenty of sunlight.
Basic Problems
Common problems for this kind of plant are pests and diseases. Pests such as aphids, caterpillars, and whiteflies can attack the plant and disrupt its growth. Diseases such as powdery mildew and stem canker can also affect the plant and cause it to wilt or die. To prevent these problems, it is important to keep the plant healthy and free of pests and diseases.
Basics of Growing
- If you live in a colder climate, it is best to grow exochorda macrantha in pots so you can bring them indoors during the winter months.
- They prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Water them regularly, especially during the summer months. Allow the soil to dry out in between waterings.
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth.
- These plants can be susceptible to powdery mildew, so keep an eye out for any signs of this disease.
- They are also susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Inspect your plants regularly and treat them accordingly if you see any pests.
- Exochorda macrantha are generally very Hardy plants, but they can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet.
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Source:
Species: Exochorda x macrantha - woodyplants.cals.cornell.edu
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