Leadwood
(Krugiodendron ferreum)
Leadwood (Krugiodendron ferreum)
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mark-groeneveld
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mark-groeneveld
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CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: mark-groeneveld | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: mark-groeneveld | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2020-12-06T15:05:46-08:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Krugiodendron ferreum, commonly known as Leadwood, is an evergreen tree or large shrub native to the dry forests and limestone hills of the Caribbean, including the Florida Keys, and Central America. It typically reaches a height of 5–10 meters (16–33 ft) and is characterized by its dense, dark wood and a compact, rounded crown. The leaves are simple, oppositely arranged, and emarginate, providing a unique texture in the landscape. Small, inconspicuous greenish flowers bloom in the spring and summer, followed by a drupe fruit that turns purplish red upon maturation.
Leadwood is valued for its hardiness and drought tolerance, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and low-water-use gardens. Its slow growth rate and ability to withstand harsh conditions are beneficial for urban environments, where it can serve as a street or shade tree. In cultivation, Leadwood requires full sun to part shade and thrives in well-drained soils, tolerating a range of soil types from sandy to loamy. It is relatively free from serious pests and diseases, but it is important to avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Leadwood is valued for its hardiness and drought tolerance, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and low-water-use gardens. Its slow growth rate and ability to withstand harsh conditions are beneficial for urban environments, where it can serve as a street or shade tree. In cultivation, Leadwood requires full sun to part shade and thrives in well-drained soils, tolerating a range of soil types from sandy to loamy. It is relatively free from serious pests and diseases, but it is important to avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
- Height: 15-25 feet
- Width: 10-20 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Low, Medium
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden
Natural Habitat
Dry forests and limestone hills in the Caribbean and Central America
Other Names
Common Names: Black Ironwood, Palo De Hierro, Strong Back
Scientific Names: , Krugiodendron ferreum, Condalia ferrea, Rhamnus ferreus, Scutia ferrea, Rhamnus laevigata, Rhamnus purpusii, Ceanothus ferreus, Rhamnus brandegeana, Ziziphus emarginata
GBIF Accepted Name: Krugiodendron ferreum (Vahl) Urb.