Rhodotypos Scandens

Rhodotypos Scandens, commonly known as ‘Jet Bead’, is a mound forming, deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. The plant is native to China, Japan, and Korea and is grown for its beautiful foliage and fragrant flowers.

Rhodotypos Scandens can grow up to 1.5 metres tall and wide, with a rounded growth habit. The shrub has an arching and spreading growth habit with multiple stems, which make it suitable for hedging and bordering. The leaves are dark green, oval, and serrated.  They turn yellow in the Autumn before falling off.

In late Spring, clusters of fragrant white flowers appear that have a striking contrast against the dark green foliage. The flowers give way to small black fruits in the Summer that resemble jet beads, giving the plant its common name.

This is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, as long as they are well-drained. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade, although it can tolerate full shade. It is generally drought-tolerant but will benefit from regular watering during dry periods.

In summary, this is a beautiful and hardy deciduous shrub with dark green foliage, fragrant white flowers, and small black fruits. It is low maintenance and resistant to most pests and diseases, making it an excellent addition to any landscape. It is suitable for hedging, bordering, or as a specimen plant in the garden.

How to care for your Rhodotypos Scandens

• Soil and Location: Prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil. When selecting a planting location, choose an area that receives full sun to partial shade.
• Watering: It is relatively drought-tolerant but will benefit from regular watering during dry periods. Water the plant deeply once a week, depending on weather conditions and soil drainage. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
• Fertilisation: Does not require frequent fertilisation. However, applying a slow-release, balanced fertiliser in the Spring will promote healthy growth and flowering. Avoid applying excessive amounts of fertiliser, as this can lead to weak growth and an increased risk of disease.
• Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch around the plant will help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and add nutrients to the soil. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as compost, shredded leaves, or straw, around the base of the plant.
• Pruning: Pruning is not necessary, but it can be beneficial for maintaining its size and shape. Prune the shrub in late Winter or early Spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and trim back any overgrown or leggy stems.

In summary, providing Rhodotypos Scandens with the right growing conditions will ensure a healthy and thriving plant. With proper care, this plant will produce beautiful foliage and fragrant flowers that will add colour and interest to your garden.