Home Prairie and Wetland Center
16245 S US Hwy 71
Belton, MO 64012
Tel: (816) 331-9738
Fax: (816) 331-9739

Leitneria floridana

Corkwood

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Leitneria floridana (Corkwood)

This rare shrub is found in the boot heel of Missouri. In early spring, showy catkins appear followed by simple, thick, dark, shiny-green leaves with heavy vein patterns. The common name comes from its extremely light wood. The bark is showy with lighter colored lenticels. Fall interest comes from yellow leaves and interesting oval fruits that are chartreuse and held close to the stems. There are separate male and female plants. Difficult to find in the trade.

Additional Information:


Height
6-12 Feet

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Spread
8-15 Feet

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USDA Hardiness Zone 5-9

Home Owner Growing and Maintenance Tips:

Good Companions
Shining Blue Star (Amsonia illustris), Tussock Sedge (Carex stricta), Virginia Sweetspire (Itea virginica), Golden Ragwort (Packera aureus), American Snowbell (Styrax americana)

Characteristics & Attributes

Hydrologic Designation

OBL

Season of Interest

Late (July-frost)
Winter (Nov-Mar)
Early (Feb-Apr)

Soil Moisture

Moderate
Average
High

Special Features

Interesting Bark

Special Uses

Bog
Fresh Cut Flower

Sun Exposure

Medium Sun/Average Shade
Full Sun

USFS MO Ecological Map

Wildlife Benefit

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