Amelanchier Ovalis - ordinary rock pear

Amelanchier Ovalis, known in German as an ordinary rock bulb, belongs to the Rosaceae family. This species is valued for its attractive flowers, edible fruits and their ability to thrive in rocky and calcareous soils. Amelanchier Ovalis was first described by Carl von Linné and is native to Europe and in parts of Asia. It belongs to the genus Amelanchier, which comprises around 20 species worldwide, which are mostly distributed in the moderate zones of the northern hemisphere.

Morphological characteristics

Amelanchier Ovalis is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can reach a height of up to 3 meters. The plant has a dense, bushy growth shape with slim, reddish-brown to gray-brown branches. The leaves are simple, oval to elliptical shaped and have a length of 2 to 5 centimeters. They are dark green and brighter on the top, often with fine hair.

The flowers of Amelanchier Ovalis are white and arranged in upright, grape -shaped inflorescences. Each flower has five petals and numerous stamens that give the plant a characteristic appearance. The heyday ranges from April to May and is known for its beauty and mild fragrance. After flowering, small, spherical, dark blue to black fruits develop that are edible and have a sweet taste. The fruits ripen in late summer and are very popular with birds.

Ecological claims and distribution

Amelanchier Ovalis prefers sunny to partially shaded locations and thrives best in well -permeable, calcareous floors. The plant is relatively resistant to dryness and copes well with rocky, stony soils. It is hardy and can withstand temperatures up to -20 ° C, which makes it suitable for cultivation in moderate climate zones.

The natural spread of amelanchier Ovalis extends over southern Europe, the Mediterranean and West Asia. It typically grows in rocky areas, on limestone floors and in open forests. Due to its decorative properties and edible fruits, it is also cultivated in gardens and parks in other parts of the world.

Cultural and gardening importance

Amelanchier Ovalis has a long history of use in garden art and agriculture. The plant is often planted as an ornamental shrub in gardens and parks, often in groups or as a hedge, to ensure an attractive spring and summer blossom. The rock mispel is also known for its edible fruits, which can be freshly consumed or processed into jam and jelly. Historically, the fruits were also used in folk medicine.

In the landscape design, Amelanchier Ovalis is appreciated because of its ability to thrive in difficult floors and to contribute to stabilizing slopes and embankments. Their deep roots help to bind the ground and prevent erosion.

Care and increase

The care of Amelanchier Ovalis is relatively uncomplicated. The plant only needs minimal care as soon as it is established. An occasional pruning promotes a thicker growth shape and removes dead or damaged branches. The plant should be irrigated during longer dry periods to avoid stress, especially in the first years after planting.

The increase is mainly through seeds that can be sown in autumn or spring. The seeds need cold straification to break the germ rest, which means that they have to be exposed to a period of low temperatures before they can germinate. Alternatively, the plant can be increased by cuttings or lowerers.