Acaena Anserinifolia
Contents
Description
Acaena Anserinifolia is a low-growing perennial plant species that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is commonly known as New Zealand burr or biddy-bid. This plant is native to New Zealand and Australia but is now also found in other parts of the world due to its ornamental value. The leaves are bright green and fern-like, and the flowers are small and pinkish-red. The plant produces small, spiky burrs that stick to clothes and animal fur, which is how it propagates in the wild.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Acaena |
Appearance
Acaena Anserinifolia is a low-growing plant that forms a dense mat of foliage. The leaves are fern-like, bright green, and arranged in a rosette. The flowers are small and pinkish-red, held on slender stems above the foliage. The plant produces small burrs that are spiky and stick to clothes and animal fur. The burrs are brownish and have a rough surface. The plant grows up to 10 cm in height and can spread up to 1 meter wide.
Care Guide
Acaena Anserinifolia is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your Acaena Anserinifolia:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Acaena Anserinifolia is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acaena Anserinifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, or powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-watered and avoid overcrowding.
Habitat
Acaena Anserinifolia is native to New Zealand and Australia, where it grows in open grasslands, rocky areas, and forests. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions and is often cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Acaena Anserinifolia a good plant for ground cover?
A: Yes, Acaena Anserinifolia is an excellent plant for ground cover, as it forms a dense mat of foliage that suppresses weeds.
Q: Does Acaena Anserinifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Acaena Anserinifolia produces small burrs that stick to animal fur, which helps to distribute the plant’s seeds. It may also attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Acaena Anserinifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Acaena Anserinifolia can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s spreading habit.
Q: How often should I water my Acaena Anserinifolia?
A: Water your Acaena Anserinifolia regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Related Plants
- Acaena microphylla
- Acaena novae-zelandiae
- Acaena inermis
- Acaena magellanica
References
- “Acaena Anserinifolia.” PlantNet. Accessed 18 June 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Acaena~anserinifolia
- “Acaena Anserinifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 18 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287650&isprofile=0&basic=Acaena%20anserinifolia
- “Acaena Anserinifolia.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 18 June 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/18761/Acaena-anserinifolia/Details
