Overview
Cephalanthus occidentalis is a bushy shrubs in the genus Cephalanthus, part of the Rubiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1.5-2.5 metres tall and 1.5-2.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Cephalanthus occidentalis grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. It is low maintenance. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and city and courtyard gardens. It is native to N America.
About
Cephalanthus occidentalis is a deciduous shrub or small tree with a broadly branching structure. Its oval leaves can reach lengths of up to 18 centimeters, while the young stems may exhibit a reddish tint. In late summer to early autumn, the plant produces clusters of small, fragrant, creamy-white tubular flowers, arranged in compact spheres approximately 1.5 centimeters in diameter.
About the genus
Cephalanthus comprises both deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs. Its small, aromatic flowers appear in round clusters.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cephalanthus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Cephalanthus occidentalis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Spread
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens
- Native to
- N America
- Fragrance
- Flower
- Toxicity
- Foliage may cause severe discomfort if eaten. Wear gloves and wash hands after handling
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cephalanthus occidentalis
- Cultivation
- Needs fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained, neutral to acid soil in full sun
- Pruning
- Pruning group 6
- Propagation
- Take semi-ripe or hardwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Cephalanthus occidentalis?
Needs fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained, neutral to acid soil in full sun.
Where is the best place to plant Cephalanthus occidentalis?
Cephalanthus occidentalis prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Cephalanthus occidentalis need?
Cephalanthus occidentalis grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Cephalanthus occidentalis?
Pruning group 6.
How big does Cephalanthus occidentalis grow?
Cephalanthus occidentalis reaches a height of 1.5-2.5 metres and a spread of 1.5-2.5 metres. It takes around 5-10 years to reach full size.
Is Cephalanthus occidentalis hardy in the UK?
Cephalanthus occidentalis has a UK hardiness rating of H5.
How do I propagate Cephalanthus occidentalis?
Take semi-ripe or hardwood cuttings.
Is Cephalanthus occidentalis toxic?
Foliage may cause severe discomfort if eaten. Wear gloves and wash hands after handling.