Gordonia lasianthus aka Loblolly Bay

Taxonomy

Genus Gordonia Family Theaceae Order Ericales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Gordonia lasianthus, also known as loblolly-bay, holly-bay, gordonia, or bay, is an evergreen tree or shrub that is native to the southeastern United States. It can be found in acidic, swampy soils of pinelands and bays on the Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plains. Loblolly-bay can grow to be a small to medium-sized tree, reaching a height of 35 to 70 feet with a trunk diameter of 20 inches. It has a columnar or pyramidal, very open growth habit with a narrow, compact crown of spreading branches. The eventual size of the tree is dependent on soil moisture. The wood of loblolly-bay is soft and light-colored, with little commercial value, although it could be managed as a source of pulpwood. When older specimens are cut, the wood exudes a strong scent that is similar to a mixture of fresh oranges and pine sap. The bark of the adult tree varies from medium grey to a red brown coloration. Dead adult specimens of loblolly bay exhibit a lustrous shine when exposed to sunlight for several years. Loblolly-bay has spectacular white Camellia-like flowers that are fragrant and can continue through frost. The white showy flowers and shiny foliage make it a desirable ornamental, but it is not easy to cultivate. Several individual leaves at a time will turn a brilliant scarlet color in the fall, even though the tree is evergreen. Deer browse stump sprouts heavily.

Common names

Loblolly Bay, Holly Bay, Gordonia, Bay

How to care for Loblolly Bay

Difficulty

Loblolly Bay presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Loblolly Bay should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Loblolly Bay loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Loblolly Bay thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Gordonia.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Loblolly Bay to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Loblolly Bay is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

Loblolly Bay grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

More info:
Wikipedia

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