Fiddlewood
Citharexylum spinosum
Spinosum
About this plant
Citharexylum spinosum, commonly called Fiddlewood, is a small tree or large shrub known for its dense, spiny branches and fragrant white flowers. It is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes for its attractive foliage and flowers. The plant produces small fruits that attract birds.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Citharexylum
- Family
- Verbenaceae
- Higher classification
- Lamiales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Caribbean, Central America
- Distribution
- Native to the Caribbean and parts of Central America; cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18–30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10–12
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or sandy soil
Watering. Water regularly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
Fertilizing. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and mid-summer to support healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause excessive leaf growth with fewer flowers.
Citharexylum spinosum is a hardy shrub or small tree that prefers sunny spots and well-drained soil. It tolerates dry conditions once established but needs regular watering when young. Occasional pruning helps maintain its shape and remove any dead branches.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring–summer
Fragrant white flowers, dense spiny branches, attractive green foliage, and small fruits that attract birds.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Not known to be toxic to humans or pets, but avoid ingestion of any plant parts.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Citharexylum spinosum may cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, mainly due to contact with its sap or leaves. People with plant allergies should handle it with care and wear gloves to reduce exposure.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot, and poor drainage may lead to fungal diseases. It can also be affected by pests like scale insects if not monitored.
Uses
Used as an ornamental plant for gardens and landscapes due to its attractive flowers and foliage. Also valued for providing habitat and food for birds.
Notes
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Repot young plants annually if grown in containers. Protect from frost in cooler climates.