Robinia Bristly Haired

2024 Author: Gavin MacAdam | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 13:38

Robinia bristly-haired (lat. Robinia hispida) - an ornamental shrub used in single and mixed plantings. Representative of the genus Robinia of the legume family. In nature, the species is found in North America. Typical habitats are mountains and slopes.

Characteristics of culture

Robinia bristly-haired is represented by shrubs up to three meters high, which form abundant root shoots during their growth. They are characterized by rather brittle branches of a reddish-brown color, as well as brownish-olive shoots. It should be noted that the plant is pubescent over the entire surface with elongated reddish bristles, with the exception of flower petals. The foliage of the species under consideration is long, rounded, elliptical, dark green, pointed at the tips. The lower surface of the leaves is bluish.

The flowers, in turn, are pink or with a purple tint, do not exceed 25 mm in diameter, collected in racemose loose inflorescences in the amount of 5-9 pieces. Flowering is observed in the first - second decade of June, lasts no more than three weeks. Re-flowering is possible in the third decade of August - the first decade of September, but only on condition of high-quality care and a favorable climate. The fruits are represented by glandular-bristly beans, which reach 4-8 cm in length.

Growing conditions

Robinia bristly cannot be attributed to whimsical plants, however, in order to achieve active growth and abundant flowering, a number of simple rules should be followed. It is preferable to plant the crop in areas well-lit by the sun. Also areas with diffused light are not prohibited. A thick shade is extremely undesirable; in such areas, the culture is often affected by pests and diseases, practically does not bloom and lags behind in growth. Soils, in turn, should be light, neutral, nutritious, moderately moist. Swampy, waterlogged, acidic and heavy soils are not suitable, just like areas with a high groundwater table.

Reproduction of culture

Robinia bristly is propagated both by seed and vegetative method. Seed harvesting is carried out in mid - late October or later, depending on climatic conditions. Seeds should be stored at 4-5C. Before sowing, the seeds need to be processed. They are treated with boiling water and then with cool water. Seeds are sown in seedling boxes filled with nutrient soil in early spring. Or in open ground in the third decade of April - the first decade of May. Before planting, the soil is carefully dug up, rotted compost and nitrogen fertilizers are introduced. Ash is encouraged, but not required.

Vegetative propagation involves planting root suckers. They are separated from the mother plant and transplanted into open ground to a permanent place. The soil is preliminarily treated, a small portion of peat and washed river sand is introduced in a ratio of 1: 2. Reproduction of culture by cuttings is not prohibited. Gardeners call this method the most effective. Cut the cuttings at least 20 cm long. The edge must be sprinkled with coal dust. Cuttings are preferably carried out in the spring. Autumn cuttings can hardly be called productive. Often, cuttings die or do not take root due to excess moisture.

Young plants need regular and quality care. It is recommended to water them sparingly as the topsoil dries up. Weed control is encouraged. If it is not possible to pay due attention to the plants, you should mulch the soil with natural material, for example, sawdust. They will keep weeds out and retain moisture for a longer period. The culture has a positive attitude to feeding. The first feeding is carried out at planting or in early spring after the snow melts, the second - before flowering, the third - after flowering. Don't forget about preventive pruning.