There is no widely recognized common name for Stephanandra tanakae; it is typically referred to by its scientific name. Stephanandra tanakae
ABOUT
Stephanandra tanakae is a flowering plant known for its ornamental appeal. It features a delicate branching habit with numerous slender stems that arch gracefully. The leaves of this plant are small, with a distinctive delicate texture, and appear in a rich green hue that adds a fresh, lush look to the landscape. During the growing season, the foliage may also display subtle hues of yellow and orange, bringing a warm palette of colors to gardens. In the spring and early summer, Stephanandra tanakae produces clusters of tiny, star-shaped flowers. These blossoms are generally creamy-white, which contrast nicely against the vibrant green of the leaves. The blossoms are typically dense and offer a fine, frothy appearance that adds to the plant's overall charm. As the seasons change, the foliage might take on autumnal colors, adding visual interest later in the year. The overall form of the plant is mounded, with a natural, flowing appearance that can soften garden edges and works well in mixed borders. Its texture and color make it a versatile choice for gardeners looking to add a cascading element to their planting schemes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Tanaka's Stephanandra
Common names
Stephanandra tanakae.
ToxicityTo humans
Stephanandra tanakae, commonly known as stephanandra, does not have a well-documented toxicity profile for humans in the available literature up to my last update in early 2023. As such, there are no commonly reported symptoms of poisoning from this specific plant. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities may exist, so it's advisable to exercise caution and avoid ingesting parts of plants not known to be edible.
To pets
Similarly, for Stephanandra tanakae, or stephanandra, there is limited information on its toxicity to pets, such as cats and dogs. It is not commonly listed among the toxic or non-toxic plants for pets by major animal poison control resources. Given this lack of specific data, it is still wise to prevent pets from ingesting this or any plant not specifically known to be safe, as they may experience gastrointestinal upset or other issues if they consume plants not intended for them.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Height
5 feet (1.52 meters)
Spread
5 feet (1.52 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Landscape Beautification: Stephanandra tanakae, also known as lace shrub, adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its delicate foliage and graceful form.
- Erosion Control: The plant's extensive root system helps stabilize soil on slopes and prevent erosion.
- Habitat for Wildlife: Provides shelter and nesting sites for birds and other small animals.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers a variety of visual interest throughout the seasons, including spring flowers and autumn foliage color.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, lace shrub requires minimal care and is relatively drought-tolerant.
- Privacy Screen: When planted in groups, it can act as a natural privacy screen or hedge in residential landscapes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Landscaping: Stephanandra tanakae, often just called Stephanandra, is commonly used in landscaping for its dense foliage and sprawling habit, which makes it effective for ground cover and erosion control on slopes and banks.
- Wildlife Habitat: The dense thickets formed by Stephanandra provide shelter and nesting sites for small birds and insects.
- Decorative Arrangements: The arching branches and fine leaves of Stephanandra can be used in floral arrangements to add texture and a sense of movement.
- Garden Borders: Due to its dense growth, Stephanandra is often planted at the edges of gardens to create a natural and decorative border.
- Fall Foliage: Stephanandra's foliage turns a vibrant yellow-orange in the fall, providing seasonal interest in the garden or when used in autumn decorative displays.
- Bonsai: Some enthusiasts may use Stephanandra for bonsai due to its interesting branch structure and small leaves, although this is less common.
- Hedging: While not a traditional hedge plant, Stephanandra can be pruned and maintained as a low informal hedge.
- Crafts: The flexible stems of Stephanandra can be woven or used in basketry as natural crafting material.
- Educational Tool: In educational gardens or programs, Stephanandra can be used to demonstrate pruning techniques or to discuss native shrubbery and their role in local ecosystems.
- Winter Interest: The peeling bark and persistent dried seed heads of Stephanandra can add textural interest to the winter garden landscape.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Stephanandra is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Stephanandra is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- No widely recognized symbolism: Stephanandra tanakae, commonly known as the Lace Shrub, does not have a widely recognized symbolic meaning in the world of floristry or plant symbolism. Its decorative foliage and charming appearance give it ornamental value, although it is not commonly associated with specific symbolic meanings.
WaterWater Lace Shrub, the common name for Stephanandra tanakae, by thoroughly soaking the soil around the plant when the top inch feels dry to the touch, which typically amounts to once a week during active growth in spring and summer. In the fall and winter, reduce watering to every two or three weeks depending on the humidity and temperature of the environment. Use roughly 1 to 2 gallons of water per plant for each watering session, ensuring that the water penetrates deeply into the soil to encourage strong root development. Avoid letting the plant sit in waterlogged soil, as this can cause root rot. Monitor the soil moisture levels regularly and adjust your watering schedule accordingly to avoid overwatering the Lace Shrub.
LightLace Shrub thrives in partial shade to full sun but appreciates some protection from the intense afternoon sun, particularly in hotter climates. Choose a spot in your garden that receives morning light and dappled shade in the afternoon, or a place that gets consistent but gentle light throughout the day. If positioned inside, ensure it receives bright, indirect light.
TemperatureLace Shrub prefers temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 30 degrees Fahrenheit without significant damage. Ideal growing conditions for the Lace Shrub would maintain this temperature range throughout most of the year. It is important to protect the plant from extreme cold and avoid exposure to temperatures below the freezing point.
PruningPrune Lace Shrub to maintain its shape and encourage denser foliage, which is typically done in late winter or early spring before the onset of new growth. Remove any dead or damaged branches and thin out the center of the plant to allow light and air to reach the inner branches. Pruning Lace Shrub yearly or as needed will also help to control its size and promote more vibrant leaf color.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Lace Shrub thrives in moderately fertile, well-drained soil with an acidic to neutral pH of around 5.5 to 7.0. A mix that includes organic matter such as compost or peat moss will help to provide the needed nutrients and proper drainage.
RepottingLace Shrub, typically a garden shrub, does not require frequent repotting. When grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and prevent root overcrowding.
Humidity & MistingLace Shrub prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable and can tolerate the varying humidity conditions typically found in outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow Lace Shrub in bright, indirect light with well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant Lace Shrub in partial shade, water regularly, and mulch.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA.
Life cycleStephanandra tanakae, commonly known as Lace Shrub, begins its life cycle as a seed which germinates in moist, well-drained soil in a partly shaded environment. The seedling emerges and develops into a young plant with characteristic serrated leaves. As it matures, the Lace Shrub produces new shoots and branches, forming a dense, mounded shrub. It reaches reproductive maturity within a few years and produces small, unremarkable flowers that are typically white or pale in color. After pollination, small fruits develop which contain seeds that, once dispersed, can give rise to new plants. The Lace Shrub can live for many years and continues to grow in size, with the possibility of spreading through both seed and vegetative means, such as rooting from stem cuttings.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Stephanandra tanakae, commonly known as Lace Shrub, is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The best time to take these cuttings is in late summer, allowing sufficient time for rooting before the onset of winter. A semi-hardwood cutting is usually taken from the current season's growth that has started to mature but is not yet fully hardened. To propagate Lace Shrub, one should cut a 4 to 6-inch (10 to 15 cm) long stem with several leaves, making the cut just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The prepared cutting should then be placed in a well-draining potting mix or a propagating medium such as perlite or sand. High humidity and consistent warmth can improve rooting success, hence a greenhouse or a plastic cover might be used to maintain the right conditions. Regularly check for root formation, and once rooted, the plants can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
