Veldt Grape
fabiana imbricata
Also known as: ["Chilean Barberry","Pichi"]
Overview
A slow-growing, evergreen shrub native to South America, known for its dense, needle-like foliage and small, fragrant white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Fabiana |
| Botanical Name: | Fabiana imbricata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock garden or sunny border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to bright indirect light; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight preferred, especially in cooler climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun to prevent scorching. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in intense sun; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a cactus mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 50–70°F (10–21°C). Tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply 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 and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of older stems and deadwood; light shaping of new growth.
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 crossing branches; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Fabiana imbricata prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Check root boundness; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation without pooling. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges in excessive heat; wilting or blackened stems in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage or dieback if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C) for extended periods.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth; move containers indoors or to a sheltered location; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may cease in excessive heat above 85°F (29°C) without adequate water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicFabiana imbricata is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicFabiana imbricata is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicFabiana imbricata is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It has not been documented to cause any adverse physiological impacts when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Fabiana imbricata suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is highly tolerant of coastal conditions and salt spray.
Q: How often should Fabiana imbricata be watered?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Fabiana imbricata require pruning?
A: Light pruning can be done to maintain shape, but it is generally low-maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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