Chimonanthus praecox
TAXONOMY
FamilyCalycanthaceae
GenusChimonanthus
Zone7
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Chimonanthus praecox, commonly known as wintersweet, is a deciduous shrub native to China. It is well-known for its fragrant yellow flowers that bloom in winter, providing a splash of color during the colder months. The plant prefers temperate climates and is often found in gardens and parks.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Calycanthus Suaveolens
Wintersweet
Beureria praecox
Butneria praecox
Calycanthus praecox
Chimonanthus baokanensis
Chimonanthus baokanensis var. yupiensis
Chimonanthus caespitosus
Chimonanthus fragrans
Chimonanthus fragrans var. grandiflorus
Chimonanthus grandiflorus
Chimonanthus luteus
Chimonanthus parviflorus
Chimonanthus praecox f. intermedius
Chimonanthus praecox f. luteus
Chimonanthus praecox f. versicolor
Chimonanthus praecox var. concolor
Chimonanthus praecox var. grandiflorus
Chimonanthus praecox var. intermedius
Chimonanthus praecox var. luteus
Chimonanthus praecox var. reflexus
Chimonanthus verus
Chimonanthus yunnanensis
Meratia fragrans
Meratia praecox
Meratia praecox var. grandiflora
Meratia yunnanensis
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature15° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Wintersweet requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in moderate temperatures and prefers a moderate level of humidity. Regular watering is necessary, but the soil should be allowed to dry out partially between waterings. Pruning is recommended to maintain its shape and encourage new growth.Soil
Chimonanthus praecox prefers well-draining loamy soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in soil that retains some moisture without becoming waterlogged. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 is suitable for wintersweet. Fertilize the plant in early spring and again in mid-summer to support its growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for wintersweet, as it is typically grown outdoors. However, if grown in a container, repotting should be done in early spring before new growth begins. Choose a slightly larger pot and refresh the soil to provide adequate nutrients.Propagation
Wintersweet can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or layering. The best time to take cuttings is in late spring or early summer. Use a rooting hormone to encourage root development and plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix.Pruning
Pruning should be done after the flowering period, typically in late winter or early spring. Remove any dead or damaged branches and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation. This will help maintain the plant's shape and promote healthy growth.Toxicity
Chimonanthus praecox is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always advisable to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to prevent any accidental ingestion.Additional
Wintersweet is valued for its winter blooms and sweet fragrance. It can be used as a focal point in gardens or as part of a mixed shrub border. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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