Jesuit's bark, Sea-oats, Marsh-elder
iva frutescens
Also known as: ["Marsh elder","Jersey tea","Swamp elder"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to coastal regions, known for its tolerance to saline and waterlogged soils.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Iva |
| Botanical Name: | Iva frutescens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens, rockeries, or as a specimen plant in mixed borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from indoors to outdoors; protect from intense midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; provide shade during peak summer hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a cactus or succulent mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions, 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers stable temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly and frequently during growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; softwood cuttings root most readily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems to shape the plant; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water 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 at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; vulnerable to frost damage in colder regions.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth in cold snaps; move containers indoors or to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat and water loss.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; mist foliage during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute correctly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicIva frutescens is not toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects on felines from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicIva frutescens is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicIva frutescens, commonly known as marsh elder or seaside arrowwood, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse effects on human health.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Iva frutescens suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is highly tolerant of saline and waterlogged soils, making it ideal for coastal regions.
Q: Does Iva frutescens attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds, making it a valuable addition to wildlife gardens.
Q: How should Iva frutescens be maintained?
A: It requires moderate maintenance, including occasional pruning and watering during dry periods.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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