Tyrannia, Swamp Cyrilla
cyrilla racemiflora
Also known as: ["Swamp Cyrilla","Tyrannia"]
Overview
An evergreen shrub or small tree native to wetland areas in the southeastern United States and the Caribbean, known for its slender, drooping branches and small, white, bell-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Cyrillaceae |
| Genus: | Cyrilla |
| Botanical Name: | Cyrilla racemiflora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: near water bodies or in shaded, moist garden areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; cactus mix or sandy loam works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to remove deadwood and maintain form.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light); adjust based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; provide dappled light in hot climates; protect from intense afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
moist, acidic, well-drained, organic-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in stable conditions.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize lightly; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering; softwood cuttings root more readily.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain moisture and humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or sand; maintain consistent moisture.
Hormone
Rooting hormone can be used to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of individual branches; avoid shearing to maintain natural form.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overgrown branches to maintain shape and encourage new growth; prune after flowering to avoid cutting off buds.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts; remove dead or diseased wood.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting in extreme heat or cold; stunted growth in fluctuating temperatures.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to frost damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth; move to a sheltered location; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in excessive heat; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCyrilla racemiflora is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicCyrilla racemiflora is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicCyrilla racemiflora is not known to exhibit any toxic properties to humans. The plant has no reported adverse effects on human physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cyrilla racemiflora toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: Does Cyrilla racemiflora attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers and habitat.
Q: What are the common problems with Cyrilla racemiflora?
A: Common issues include yellow leaves, wilting, and rotting, often due to improper watering or soil conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cyrillaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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