Capnoides

Description

Capnoides, also known as the rock foam flower, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. It is native to the eastern United States and can be found growing in rocky or gravelly areas, particularly on cliffs and ledges. The plant produces small, star-shaped flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The leaves of Capnoides are evergreen and resemble rosettes, with a waxy texture that helps to prevent water loss.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Capnoides plant grows to a height of about 6-12 inches and has a spread of approximately 8-12 inches. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that grow in clusters of 2-10. The flowers have five petals that are arranged in the shape of a star. The leaves of the Capnoides plant are evergreen and have a waxy texture that helps to prevent water loss. They are arranged in a rosette formation and are about 2-3 inches long. The leaves are a dark green color and have a slightly serrated edge.

Care Guide

Capnoides plants are relatively easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. Here are some tips to help you care for your Capnoides plant:

• Water: Capnoides plants prefer well-drained soil that is kept slightly moist. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
• Fertilization: Capnoides plants do not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
• Soil: Capnoides plants prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soil. If your soil is heavy, amend it with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
• Sunlight: Capnoides plants prefer partial shade or full shade. They can tolerate some morning sun, but should be protected from hot afternoon sun.
• Hardiness Zones: Capnoides plants are hardy in USDA zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Capnoides plants are relatively pest and disease resistant. However, they may be susceptible to powdery mildew if they are grown in humid conditions. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:

• Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. It can be treated with a fungicide.
• Slugs and Snails: These pests can be controlled with slug bait or by handpicking.

Habitat

Capnoides plants are native to the eastern United States and can be found growing in rocky or gravelly areas, particularly on cliffs and ledges. They prefer well-drained soil and partial to full shade.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Capnoides plant?

A: Water your Capnoides plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Q: What kind of soil does Capnoides prefer?

A: Capnoides plants prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soil.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Capnoides?

A: Capnoides plants are hardy in USDA zones 4-8.

Q: What pests and diseases are common for Capnoides?

A: Capnoides plants may be susceptible to powdery mildew and slugs and snails.

Related Plants

• Saxifraga
• Heuchera
• Tiarella
• Astilbe

References

• “Capnoides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c293.
• “Rock Foamflower.” NC State Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/rock-foamflower.
• “Capnoides.” Plant Database, www.plantdatabase.co.uk/Capnoides