Contents
Description
Boykinia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Saxifragaceae. It is native to North America and East Asia, and includes about 10 species. Boykinia plants are herbaceous perennials that grow up to 60 cm tall. They have basal leaves that are typically rounded or heart-shaped, with toothed margins. The flowers are usually white or pink, and are borne in panicles or racemes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Boykinia |
Appearance
Boykinia plants are herbaceous perennials that grow up to 60 cm tall. They have basal leaves that are typically rounded or heart-shaped, with toothed margins. The leaves are usually green, but can sometimes be tinged with red or bronze. The flowers are usually white or pink, and are borne in panicles or racemes. The petals are typically 5 in number, and the stamens are usually 10. The fruit is a capsule that contains many small seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Boykinia plants prefer moist soil, so water them regularly to keep the soil evenly moist.
Fertilization: Boykinia plants do not require much fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer once or twice a year should be sufficient.
Soil: Boykinia plants prefer well-drained, humus-rich soil that is slightly acidic. They do not tolerate heavy clay soils.
Sunlight: Boykinia plants prefer partial to full shade, although they can tolerate some morning sun.
Hardiness Zones: Boykinia plants are hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Boykinia plants are relatively disease and pest-free. However, they may occasionally be attacked by slugs or snails, which can eat the leaves and damage the plant. To control these pests, use slug bait or hand-pick them off the plant.
Habitat
Boykinia plants are native to North America and East Asia. They typically grow in moist, shady areas, such as woodlands or along streams. They prefer cool, temperate climates and are hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Boykinia plants tolerate full sun?
A: Boykinia plants prefer partial to full shade, although they can tolerate some morning sun.
Q: Are Boykinia plants hardy?
A: Yes, Boykinia plants are hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Q: How often should Boykinia plants be watered?
A: Boykinia plants prefer moist soil, so water them regularly to keep the soil evenly moist.
Q: What pests and diseases can affect Boykinia plants?
A: Boykinia plants are relatively disease and pest-free. However, they may occasionally be attacked by slugs or snails, which can eat the leaves and damage the plant.
Related Plants
- Saxifraga
- Heuchera
- Tiarella
- Epimedium
References
- Flora of North America: Boykinia
- RHS: Boykinia
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Boykinia
