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Description
Acanthopsis Horrida, also known as the Spiny Thistle, is a perennial plant native to South Africa. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and is known for its spiky thistle-like appearance. The plant can grow up to 1m tall and 60cm wide, with a single stem that branches out towards the top. Its leaves are gray-green and have sharp spines along the edges. The flowers are purple and grow in clusters on top of the stem in summer and autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Acanthopsis |
Appearance
The Spiny Thistle has a distinctive thistle-like appearance with gray-green leaves that have sharp spines along the edges. The plant can grow up to 1m tall and 60cm wide, with a single stem that branches out towards the top. The flowers are purple and grow in clusters on top of the stem in summer and autumn. The plant is known for its spiky appearance and can be used as a decorative plant in gardens and landscapes.
Care Guide
Water: Acanthopsis Horrida prefers well-draining soil and should be watered moderately. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: The plant can be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The Spiny Thistle prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Acanthopsis Horrida is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Spiny Thistle is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and slugs. It can also be affected by powdery mildew and root rot if the soil is not well-draining. Pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil, while diseases can be prevented by ensuring proper watering and good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Acanthopsis Horrida is native to South Africa and can be found in rocky areas and on hillsides. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Acanthopsis Horrida be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: Does the Spiny Thistle attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the purple flowers of the plant can attract bees and butterflies, making it a good choice for pollinator gardens.
Q: Is Acanthopsis Horrida poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous to humans or animals.
Q: Can the Spiny Thistle be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer.
Related Plants
- Acanthopsis Glabra
- Acanthopsis Sclerodonta
- Acanthopsis Sepiacea
References
- “Acanthopsis horrida.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287682
- “Acanthopsis horrida.” PlantZAfrica. http://pza.sanbi.org/acanthopsis-horrida
- “Spiny Thistle (Acanthopsis horrida).” Gardenia. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/acanthopsis-horrida-spiny-thistle
