Contents
Description
Cliffortia Glauca, also known as the Silky Cliffortia, is a stunning wildflower that is native to the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is a member of the Rosaceae family and is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 1.5m tall. This plant is well known for its small, silky leaves that are covered in fine hairs. It is an attractive plant that produces clusters of small, white or pink flowers that bloom from July to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Cliffortia |
Appearance
The Cliffortia Glauca is a small evergreen shrub that can grow up to 1.5m tall. It has small, silky leaves that are covered in fine hairs, giving them a soft texture. The leaves are a greyish-green colour and are arranged alternately on the stem. The flowers of the Cliffortia Glauca are small, white or pink, and grow in clusters. They bloom from July to September and are followed by small, round fruits that are covered in fine hairs.
Care Guide
Cliffortia Glauca is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to properly care for this plant:
Water
The Cliffortia Glauca requires moderate watering, and it is important to ensure that the soil does not dry out completely. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization
Cliffortia Glauca does not require much fertilization but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Soil
The Cliffortia Glauca prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Sunlight
This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.
Hardiness Zones
The Cliffortia Glauca is hardy to USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cliffortia Glauca is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
Pests
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Caterpillars
Diseases
- Powdery mildew
- Root rot
Habitat
The Cliffortia Glauca is native to the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is typically found growing in fynbos and renosterveld vegetation types, which are both unique to the Western Cape region. These shrublands are characterized by their low-growing, evergreen vegetation and are home to a variety of plant and animal species.
Question and Answer
Here are some frequently asked questions about Cliffortia Glauca:
Q: Is Cliffortia Glauca an indoor or outdoor plant?
A: Cliffortia Glauca is an outdoor plant and is best grown in full sun to partial shade.
Q: How often should I water my Cliffortia Glauca?
A: Water your Cliffortia Glauca deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cliffortia Glauca?
A: Cliffortia Glauca is hardy to USDA zones 8-11.
Q: What pests and diseases are common for Cliffortia Glauca?
A: Common pests for Cliffortia Glauca include aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. Common diseases include powdery mildew and root rot.
Related Plants
- Cliffortia Arborea
- Cliffortia Ferruginea
- Cliffortia Ruscifolia
- Cliffortia Setacea
References
- “Cliffortia Glauca.” PlantZAfrica. National Botanical Institute, South Africa, n.d. Web. 18 Aug. 2021.
- “Cliffortia Glauca.” Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. SANBI, n.d. Web. 18 Aug. 2021.
- “Cliffortia Glauca.” Dave’s Garden. MH Sub I, LLC, n.d. Web. 18 Aug. 2021.
