Japanese Sakaki (Cleyera Japonica)
Cleyera japonica, also known as Japanese sakaki, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to Japan, Korea, and China. It can grow up to 10 meters tall and has glossy, elliptic leaves that are 7-10 centimeters long and 3-4 centimeters wide. The leaves are dark green above and yellowish-green below. Young leaves may have a rosy tinge, particularly near the edges. The leaves are arranged in two ranks on the branches, one on either side.
Cleyera japonica is a popular ornamental plant because of its attractive foliage and tolerance of a variety of conditions. It can be grown in full sun or partial shade and in a variety of soils, as long as the soil is well-drained. Cleyera japonica is also drought-tolerant once established.
To shape Cleyera japonica, you can pinch out the tips of the branches in the spring. This will encourage new growth and help to keep the shrub compact. You can also prune Cleyera japonica in the fall or winter to remove any dead or damaged branches.
Here are some additional facts about Cleyera japonica:
- It is considered a sacred tree in the Shinto religion.
- The wood of Cleyera japonica is used to make furniture, flooring, and other objects.
- The flowers of Cleyera japonica are small and white.
- The fruit of Cleyera japonica is a small, black berry.
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