calcifugous
Calcifugous, or calcifuge, describes plants that avoid or are unable to thrive in calcareous (lime-rich) soils. The term is used mainly in botany and horticulture to denote species that require acidic soils with low pH and are intolerant of liming or high calcium carbonate levels.
Etymology and scope: The word derives from Latin calx, calcis meaning limestone, and fugere meaning to flee.
Typical examples and groups: Many ericaceous plants are calcifugous, including rhododendrons and azaleas, heathers (Calluna and
Cultivation and management: In gardening and horticulture, managing soil pH is essential for calcifugous species. They
Notes: Some species are facultative calcifuges, tolerating mildly calcareous conditions but performing best on acidic soils.