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GENERAL
Origin
:
Mediterranean,
sub-tropical
Vigour
:
fast growing
Humidity
:
semi-arid, semi-
humid, very
humid
Propagation :
sowing and
pricking out
Maintenance :
moderate
CONDITIONS
Urban climate :
vulnerable
Dessication :
vulnerable
Stagnant water :
vulnerable
Irrigation
:
medium
Salinity/ppm :
moderate (1500
ppm)
Hardiness
:
-3°C
SHAPE
Type
:
shrub
Height
:
3 m
Spread
:
3 m
Foliage
:
evergreen
FLOWER
Colour
:
white, pink
Size
:
10 cm
Period
:
February - August
FRUIT
Type of fruit :
capsule
Fruit size
:
3 cm
The Pistol Bush is a shrub of 3 metres in height found in the undergrowth of coastal forests in the
Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. It provides a good background shrub in Arriyadh, preferab-
ly in a sheltered environment. It grows an oval or round shape, but may be trained as a standard,
revealing a rough, dark-brown bark. Large, evergreen leaves are shiny on top and have a lush
impact. Flowering begins in February and may last until August. The conspicuous flowers appear
on upright spikes and are white with purple lines. When pollinated by bees they develop into 3
× 1 cm capsules that burst open with a loud crack to release ripe seeds. This procedure made the
Pistol Bush earn its common name. Both the vivid growth and its prolonged flowering period
make this shrub a decorative specimen in small gardens and public parks. It may grow as a dense
screen, flowering hedge or act as background planting. The large leaves do not take shearing, but
pruning is possible at any time of the year. Light frosts are tolerated, but plants should not be
exposed to drying winds. Owing to its forest origins, it responds to composted soil and partial
sun with healthy growth. It responds well to fertiliser and does best with frequent irrigation in
summer. Propagation is possible from both seeds and cuttings. Seedlings often appear in mulch
and can be potted to multiply the shrub. It does not become invasive in desert climates, and is
generally free of pests and diseases.
132
Duvernoia adhatodoides,
Acanthaceae
Pistol Bush