Plants of the Week – February 14
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Plants of the Week – February 14

Posted February 18, 2011 11:55h in Plant of the Week by

Parrotia persica bark (2) JWCParrotia persica by Sharples Dining Hall has exfoliating bark which adds interest to this mid-size tree (20-40’). photo credit: J. Coceano

Rohdea japonica JWCRohdea japonica in the Wister Garden creates a vase shaped clump with thick, dark green, strap-like leaves. This great evergreen for a dry shade garden will available at the 2011 Scott Associates’ Plant Sale. photo credit: J. Coceano

Aechmea chantinii 'Samurai' JWCAechmea chantinii ‘Samurai’, photographed at Longwood Gardens,  is a popular group of bromeliad noted for their ease of case.  Several Aechmea will be offered at the Unusual Tropicals and Annuals Sale. photo credit: J. Coceano

Hamamelis mollis 'Early Bright' espalied JWCWe are featuring Hamamelis mollis ‘Early Bright’ again because among a singular cultivar there is great variation in degree of leaf drop. This specimen espalied against Clothier Hall has dropped most of its leaves as compared to last week’s specimen by the Fraternity Houses. photo credit: J. Coceano

Josh Coceano
jcocean1@swarthmore.edu
3 Comments
  • Drew Pegon
    Posted at 11:03h, 21 February Reply

    Josh,

    I am curious about the Hamamelis mollis ‘Early Bright’ photos you’ve posted. I always assumed that the degree of leaf drop was primarily a factor of the cultivar. Apparently environmental conditions also play a role – nature vs. nurture. I realize the variables might be too complex to easily chart, but has anyone been looking at the factors affecting leaf drop? It would be great to plant a Witchhazel with some expectation of being able to appreciate the flowers on naked branches.

  • Josh Coceano
    Posted at 13:13h, 21 February Reply

    Hi Drew,

    You are correct in that the degree of leaf retention is related to both genetics and environmental conditions. You will find variation from one plant to the next within a particular cultivar or genus. Look for an upcoming post where we highlight particular hamamelis with no/low leaf retention and fragrance.

  • Julie Vrooman
    Posted at 21:42h, 23 February Reply

    I had also wondered about the varying amount of leaf drop on the ‘Early Bright’. Since cultivars should all be clones, I would expect the amount of leaf dop to be essentially the same on all plants wtihin a cultivar.

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