Care of the shrub Searsia albida or Rhus albida |
|
The genus Searsia, family Anacardiaceae, comprises more than 100 species of shrubs and trees native to Africa and Asia. Some species are: Searsia albida, Searsia dentata, Searsia lucida, Searsia leptodictya, Searsia crenata, Searsia lancea, Searsia tomentosa. Scientific synonym: Rhus albida. This species is native to the Canary Islands and Morocco. They are very irregularly branched shrubs that reach 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in height. The trifoliate leaves are whitish gray; they can lose their leaves in case of prolonged drought. The yellowish flowers are small and have no decorative interest. They bloom in the fall. The red or orange fruits are quite decorative because they contrast with the color of the leaves. They can be used in rockeries, on dry and sunny slopes and as isolated specimens. Searsia albida needs full sun exposure and a warm climate. It resists occasional frosts down to -2 ºC (28.4 ºF). They prefer sandy or stony soil; the most important thing is that the drainage is excellent. They are very resistant to drought plants that need moderate irrigation waiting for the substrate to dry completely. They do not need fertilizer. They can be lightly pruned in late winter to maintain a compact habit. They are plants resistant to the usual pests and diseases but sensitive to excess watering. They are propagated from seed sown in the nursery in spring. |
Images of the shrub Searsia albida or Rhus albida |
 Searsia albida  Searsia albida  Searsia albida |