Lace Shrub Stephanandra incisa 'Crispa'
ABOUT
The Lace Shrub is known for its unique and attractive features, which include a dense, mounding growth habit that tends to spread outwards with arching branches. The foliage is the most distinctive aspect of the plant, with leaves that are intricately cut or incised, giving a finely textured and somewhat lace-like appearance. The edges of the leaves display a pleasingly crinkled or ruffled look, hence the cultivar name 'Crispa,' which suggests a crisped or wavy edge. During the spring and early summer, the foliage emerges with a fresh green color that adds vibrancy to the landscape. As the seasons progress, the green leaves may take on yellow, orange, or reddish tones as they transform for the autumn display, creating a warm and appealing effect in the garden. The Lace Shrub also produces clusters of small, inconspicuous flowers that are not particularly showy but may add a subtle charm when they appear. These flowers are followed by tiny fruit that may persist into the winter and provide some visual interest in the colder months. The plant is appreciated for its ability to provide year-round interest due to its changing leaf color, distinctive texture, and the winter profile of its branches. Landscapers and garden enthusiasts often utilize the Lace Shrub in borders, as a groundcover, or in mass plantings, where its texture and seasonal color changes can be displayed to full effect.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Lace Shrub, Cutleaf Stephanandra, Crisped Stephanandra
Common names
Stephanandra incisa 'Crispa'
ToxicityTo humans
Lace Shrub is generally not known to be toxic to humans. This means there is no notable toxicity reported, and accidental ingestion of small amounts typically does not lead to poisoning. However, it is still advisable to avoid consuming any part of ornamental plants as their edibility and effects on humans may not be well documented.
To pets
Lace Shrub is also generally considered non-toxic to pets. There is no significant evidence suggesting that this plant is poisonous to dogs, cats, or other domestic animals. Thus, ingestion is unlikely to cause harmful symptoms. Nonetheless, it's always prudent to prevent pets from eating plants since individual reactions can vary and non-toxic plants can still cause gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large quantities.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Japan Korea
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value - The Stephanandra incisa 'Crispa', commonly known as Lace Shrub, has aesthetically appealing crinkled foliage and arching branches that add ornamental value to gardens and landscapes.
- Low Maintenance - Lace Shrub is a low maintenance plant that doesn’t require frequent watering or pruning, making it a convenient choice for gardeners with limited time.
- Erosion Control - Its dense, spreading growth habit helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and banks.
- Habitat Support - Provides cover and nesting opportunities for small birds and other wildlife due to its dense branching.
- Adaptability - Lace Shrub is adaptable to a range of soil types and can thrive in both full sun and partial shade conditions, offering flexibility in garden design.
- Seasonal Interest - With its foliage changing colors through the seasons and small, white flowers in the summer, Lace Shrub offers year-round interest in the landscape.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Miniature Landscapes: Stephanandra incisa 'Crispa' can be used in creating miniature or fairy gardens due to its compact growth and interesting foliage texture.
- Erosion Control: Its dense spreading habit is valuable for stabilizing soil on slopes or banks to prevent erosion.
- Crafting Material: The flexible, wiry branches can be used in basketry or as natural ties in garden staking.
- Photography Backdrops: Photographers sometimes use the lacey foliage of the Lace Shrub as a green backdrop for macro photography.
- Winter Interest: Although deciduous, the intricate branch structure can add visual interest to a barren winter landscape.
- Garden Borders: The Lace Shrub can be used to create a defined edge along garden paths or flower beds.
- Privacy Screening: When planted in mass, Stephanandra incisa 'Crispa' can function as a low-growing informal privacy screen.
- Garden Sculpture Framework: The plant's branches can be trained or pruned to form a framework for garden sculptures or topiaries.
- Seasonal Decorations: With its ornamental foliage, Stephanandra incisa 'Crispa' branches can be included in fall decorations like wreaths or centerpieces.
- Pond Edging: The Lace Shrub can be planted around the edges of a pond or water feature to create a naturalistic setting.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Lace Shrub is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Lace Shrub is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Adaptability: Stephanandra incisa 'Crispa', also known as Lace Shrub, has a flexible growth habit, which can symbolize the ability to adapt to life's changing circumstances.
- Resilience: Lace Shrub can thrive in a variety of soil types, reflecting the trait of resilience and the capacity to withstand challenges.
- Growth: The plant's vigorous growing nature is often seen as a symbol of personal or spiritual growth.
WaterLace shrub prefers evenly moist soil, so regular watering is important, especially during dry spells. It should be watered deeply once a week, allowing the water to penetrate several inches into the soil to encourage deep root growth. In hot seasons or particularly dry weather, increase the frequency to twice a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water each time depending on the size of the plant and the climate conditions. Adjust the amount of water and frequency to ensure the soil remains moist but not soggy, as the lace shrub does not tolerate standing water. During the winter months, reduce the watering as the plant's growth slows down and its water needs decrease.
LightThe lace shrub thrives best in partial shade to full sun. However, in regions with very hot summers, it's beneficial to place it in a location where it can be protected from the intense afternoon sun. Morning sun with afternoon shade or dappled sunlight throughout the day is ideal to maintain the health and vibrant color of the foliage. Direct exposure to harsh sun can damage the leaves, so choosing a spot with appropriate light conditions is key to the plant's success.
TemperatureLace shrub is hardy and can thrive in a wide range of temperatures, typically from -20°F to 85°F. The ideal growing temperature for lace shrub is between 60°F and 75°F. Make sure to plant it in an area where the temperature does not drop below -20°F, as it may not be able to survive such extreme cold. During extreme heat, provide adequate water and some shade to prevent stress.
PruningPruning lace shrub is necessary to maintain its attractive, mounded shape and to encourage healthy growth. Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Thinning out older branches and cutting back leggy growth yearly will help keep the plant dense and compact. The best time to perform heavy pruning is every few years to rejuvenate the shrub if it becomes too large or overgrown.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLace Shrub prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. A mix of garden soil, compost, and peat would be ideal to maintain moisture while ensuring proper drainage.
RepottingLace Shrub seldom needs repotting as it's commonly grown as a landscape plant; however, if grown in containers, repotting every 2-3 years is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingLace Shrub is adaptable to a wide range of humidity levels but thrives best in moderate humidity typical of outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright indirect light, adequate water, and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, moist soil, and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
4-7 USDA
Life cycleThe Stephanandra incisa 'Crispa', commonly known as Lace Shrub, begins its life as a seed that germinates in moist, well-drained soil in a temperate climate. Upon sprouting, the seedling rapidly grows into a small bushy plant, developing crinkled, serrated leaves that are characteristic of the 'Crispa' cultivar. As it matures, the Lace Shrub enters a vegetative stage, where it spreads and forms a dense, mounded shrub up to 3 feet tall and wide. During its reproductive phase in early summer, it produces small, inconspicuous white flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into tiny seed capsules that, when dry, release seeds to propagate the next generation. Throughout the year, the Lace Shrub may undergo pruning and shaping, and it enters dormancy in winter, with its life cycle resuming in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Stephanandra incisa 'Crispa', commonly known as Lace Shrub, is most effectively propagated by softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. To propagate, select healthy, non-flowering shoots from the current year's growth and cut them into segments about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long. Each cutting should have several leaves, but remove the lower leaves to expose a clear stem section. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone to encourage root growth and plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mixture, covering the base of the stem but leaving the remaining leaves exposed. Maintain consistent moisture and provide a humid environment, if possible, until the cuttings root, which typically takes several weeks. Once rooted, the new Lace Shrubs can be transplanted to their final location in the garden.
