Cotonaster Niger - Black Dwarf Mispel

Cotoneaster Niger, also known as the black dwarf mispel or black rock mist, belongs to the Rosaceae family. This little -known species is native to East and Northern Europe. Cotonaster Niger is particularly important in subalpins and alpine habitats and has interesting ecological-morphological characteristics that make them an important part of these ecosystems.

morphology

Cotoneaste niger grows tree - until shrub -shaped. The branches of the plant are often overhanging and form a dense, compact growth shape. The branches are initially slightly hairy, but lose this hair over time and become smooth.

The leaves of Cotoneaster Niger are alternately arranged, oval to elliptical and reach a length of about 1 to 2.5 centimeters. The top of the leaf is dark green and smooth, while the underside has a lighter, slightly hairy surface. In autumn, the leaves often accept an attractive, reddish-brown color before falling off.

The flowers of Cotoneaster Niger are relatively small, about 6 to 8 millimeters in diameter, and arranged in end -of -term, umbel -like inflorescences. The flower crown consists of five white to pale pink petals. The flowering period usually extends from May to June. The pollination is carried out by insects, especially through bees and flies.

After pollination, small, spherical, black fruits develop that are classified as stone fruits. These fruits have a diameter of around 5 to 8 millimeters and each contain one or two seeds. They ripen in late summer until autumn and often stick to the plant until the winter.

Distribution and habitat

The original focus of Cotoneaster Niger is in Eastern Europe and Scandinavia. The plant grows at high altitudes between 1,000 and 2,500 meters, where it occurs on rocky slopes, in scree shaft and at stony forest edges.

The black dwarf manure is a typical type of lime rocky corridors and stony slopes and prefers well -permeable, lime -containing soils. The plant is well adapted to the extreme environmental conditions in alpine areas, including cold winter and short vegetation periods. It can thrive in both full sun and partially shaded locations.

Ecological meaning

Cotoneaster Niger plays an important role in the alpine ecosystems. The dense growth form of the shrub offers protection and habitat for a variety of small animals, including insects, spiders and small mammals. The flowers serve as a source of food for pollinators, while the fruits represent an important source of food for birds and other animals.

Use and cultivation

Although Cotoneaste Niger is less well known than some of his relatives within the genus Cotoneaster, he is occasionally cultivated in alpine gardens and stone gardens, where it is valued due to its compact growth form and attractive autumn color. The plant is easy to care for, but requires a well -permeable soil and a location that is protected from excessive wetness.

The black rock misery is rarely used in traditional medicine or as a crop, as it does not produce economically significant fruits in contrast to some other Cotoneater species. However, it contributes to biodiversity in natural and natural landscapes and can be used as an ornamental plant in special garden projects.