Coriaria

(Coria'ria)

DESCRIPTION: This group consists of about eighty deciduous, shrubby plants that are suitable for cool-temperate climates. These plants are natives of the Mediterranean region, New Zealand, the Andes, China, Japan, and the Himalayas. The foliage is compound, resembling the fronds of a fern. Its flowers, which are borne in late spring, persist, becoming thick and fleshy enclosing the fruits that follow. C. japonica is a small, low-growing shrub that can reach a height of up to 3 feet. Its arching stems are covered with bright green, pinnate leaves. In the fall, pretty red berries are produced and the foliage changes colors. C. myrtifolia is a pretty shrub that attains a height of 5 feet. It has four-angled, curving branches and lustrous black fruits in the fall. Take care, however, because the foliage and berries are poisonous. C. terminalis var. xanthocarpa is a handsome, small subshrub whose leaves turn beautiful autumn colors. Its ornamental fruits are a translucent yellow.

POTTING: These shrubs can be grown in any well-drained, friable soil. They should be planted in the spring. Pruning, which consists of cutting out the old branches on which there are no fresh shoots, should be done in the winter.

PROPAGATION: Cuttings may be made of half-ripe shoots, in July or August, and inserted in a closed frame. Layering may be done in the fall. Seeds may also be sown in sandy soil in early spring.

VARIETIES: C. terminalis & var. xanthocarpa; C. sinica; C. japonica; C. myrtifolia.

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