Rhodotypos scandens (Black Jetbead)
Michael's Opinion
This is a shrub for the connoisseur since it is a subtle plant that needs to be appreciated with the keen eye for its flowers are small as are the fruit and its form somewhat unkempt. That said the white, single rose-like flowers are beautiful as are the shiny black seeds; hence its common name. For the back of the border; I even find the leaves refreshing both in colour and form (similar to Carpinus and Ulmus species).
Botanical Information
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rhodotypos |
| Species | scandens |
| Category | Woody |
| Type | Shrub (deciduous) |
| Origin | Japan and China. |
| Pronunciation |
Details
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 4 - 8 |
| USDA Hardiness Ref. | |
| Canadian Hardiness Zone | 2a - 8a |
| Canada Hardiness Ref. | |
| RHS Hardiness Zone | H7 - H4 |
| RHS Hardiness Ref. | |
| Temperature (°C) | (-32) - (-7) |
| Temperature (°F) | (-25) - 20 |
| Height | 3 m |
| Spread | 2 m |
| Growth | Medium |
| Flowering Period | June |
Description and Growing Information
| Shape | Somewhat loose and unkempt in form. |
| Landscape | As a hedge or in woodland gardens. |
| Cultivation | Medium, well drained soil in full sun to partial shade. |
| Pests | The only problem with pests that I have noticed are rabbits and voles, both can be very destructive taking plants right to the ground in the winter months. |
| Bark/Stem Description | Green branchlets maturing into a brown colour and glabrous. |
| Leaf Description | Green leaves with a rounded to subcordate base, 4-11x3-6 cm. |
| Flower Description | White, 4 petaled flowers, 3-5 cm in diameter. |
| Fruit Description | Ovally ellipsoid, glossy drupes in groups of 3-4, a brownish-black colour. |
Photographs
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