Curlytop Ironwood
(Varronia bullata subsp. humilis)
Curlytop Ironwood (Varronia bullata subsp. humilis)
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Estimated Native Range
Climate Requirements for Manhattan, Kansas
This Plant | Your Site | Plant Suitability for Your Location | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
• Precipitation | 10" - 136" | 35" | Your precipitation may be too high for this plant. | Too high |
• High Temp. | 17°F - 104°F | 91°F | Your summer temperatures are normal for this plant. | Excellent |
• Low Temp. | -5°F - 74°F | 17°F | Your winter temperatures are normal for this plant | Excellent |
This plant may not grow well at your location - your precipitation is too high.
Summary
Varronia bullata subsp. humilis, commonly known as the Curlytop Ironwood, is a deciduous shrub native to the tropical dry forests of Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. It typically grows to a height of 3-6 feet (1-2 meters) with a similar spread, and is characterized by its dense, rounded form. The leaves are small, green, and have a distinctive curled appearance that gives the plant its common name. While flowering and fruiting information is not widely documented, the plant is presumed to have inconspicuous flowers and may produce small fruits that are significant to local wildlife.
Curlytop Ironwood is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens. It is used for ornamental purposes, particularly in rock gardens and as a component of dry, tropical-themed landscapes. This shrub prefers full sun exposure and requires minimal water once established, reflecting its adaptation to dry forest conditions. It is important to provide well-draining soil to prevent root rot. There are no widely known cultivars or significant disease problems associated with this species, but gardeners should be aware of its potential to spread if conditions are favorable.CC BY-SA 4.0
Curlytop Ironwood is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens. It is used for ornamental purposes, particularly in rock gardens and as a component of dry, tropical-themed landscapes. This shrub prefers full sun exposure and requires minimal water once established, reflecting its adaptation to dry forest conditions. It is important to provide well-draining soil to prevent root rot. There are no widely known cultivars or significant disease problems associated with this species, but gardeners should be aware of its potential to spread if conditions are favorable.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrubs
- Height: 2-3 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Native to tropical dry forests of Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean
Other Names
Common Names: Cinegal , Cupeillo , Curacao Bush (Virgin Isl.) , Herbe A Borec Querit-Tout , Juan Prieto , Lagana De Aura , Muneco (Dominican Republic) , Papita
Scientific Names: Varronia bullata subsp. humilis , Cordia bullata subsp. humilis , Cordia bullata var. globosa , Cordia dasycephala , Cordia globosa , Cordia globosa subsp. humilis , Cordia globosa var. globosa , Cordia globosa var. humilis , Cordia humilis , Cordia humilis
GBIF Accepted Name: Varronia bullata subsp. humilis