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Chenopodiaceae
Bassia scoparia
Burningbush, Kochia
A fast-growing annual with dense foliage on upright stems, Burning bush is showy in autumn as its leaves turn reddish purple. Native to Eurasia, this species is usually considered a weed elsewhere because it reseeds itself abundantly.
The leaves are thin and oblong or linear, ranging in color from light green to a light gray-green. The soft, fleshy stems are blushed salmon-red and can readily flop or break in a rain or wind downburst. Flowers occur in summer but are inconspicuous. In autumn the leaves become a nice shade of deep red and burgundy before turning brown after a killing frost.
Grow Burning bush in average, well-drained soil and full sun. This annual can be sheared into a temporary hedge or a topiary shape of any kind. Use it as an annual bedding plant, hedge or low screen.
In warm climates this species of Burning bush has become so rampant that it is considered a noxious weed. Consult local authorities first about the use of this annual, especially if you live near a natural area.
12 - 1
A1, A2, A3, H1, H2, 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Annual
Full Sun
4'-5' / 1.2m - 1.5m
3'-4' / 0.9m - 1.2m
Summer
Eastern Europe, Western Asia
Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
Average
Clay, Loam, Sand
Pollution, Drought
Fast
Drought Tolerant, Average Water
Upright/Erect
Fall
Insignificant
Light Green
Gray Green, Burgundy, Crimson
No
Yes
Fine
Matte
Bedding Plant, Edging, Hedges
Sometimes
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