Contents
Description
Cytinus Hypocistis, commonly known as the Mediterranean Dwarf, is a parasitic plant that belongs to the family Cytinaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean and North Africa, where it grows in dry and rocky habitats. This plant is unique in that it does not have leaves, stems, or roots. Instead, it relies on its host plant for all of its nutrients, which it obtains through specialized structures called haustoria.The plant has small, fleshy flowers that are pink to reddish-purple in color. The flowers are clustered together in a dense inflorescence that emerges from the soil. The flowers have no petals or sepals, and are instead composed of just a few stamens and a pistil. The plant blooms in the spring and summer, and the flowers are pollinated by insects.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Dicotyledons |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Cytinaceae |
| Genus | Cytinus |
Appearance
Cytinus Hypocistis is a small plant that typically grows to a height of 5-10 cm (2-4 inches). The plant has no leaves or stems, and its flowers emerge directly from the soil. The flowers are pink to reddish-purple in color and are clustered together in a dense inflorescence. The flowers have no petals or sepals, and are instead composed of just a few stamens and a pistil. The plant produces a small, fleshy fruit that contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Cytinus Hypocistis is a parasitic plant that requires a host plant for its survival. As such, there is little that can be done in terms of care. However, it is important to ensure that the host plant is healthy and well-nourished, as this will help to ensure the health of the Cytinus Hypocistis.In terms of sunlight, the plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but prefers well-drained, sandy soil. The plant does not require fertilization, as it obtains all of its nutrients from the host plant.Cytinus Hypocistis is hardy in USDA zones 8-10, and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Common Pests & Diseases
As a parasitic plant, Cytinus Hypocistis is not typically affected by pests or diseases. However, if the host plant is affected by pests or diseases, this can indirectly affect the Cytinus Hypocistis.
Habitat
Cytinus Hypocistis is native to the Mediterranean and North Africa, where it grows in dry and rocky habitats. The plant is typically found growing on the roots of shrubs and trees, such as Cistus, Pistacia, and Quercus species.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cytinus Hypocistis an edible plant?
A: No, Cytinus Hypocistis is not considered to be an edible plant.
Q: Can Cytinus Hypocistis be grown indoors?
A: No, Cytinus Hypocistis requires a host plant for its survival and cannot be grown indoors.
Q: How often should the host plant be watered?
A: The host plant should be watered regularly, but not excessively. It is important to ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged.
Q: How long does the plant bloom for?
A: The plant typically blooms in the spring and summer, and the flowers can remain on the plant for several weeks.
Related Plants
- Cytinus sanguineus
- Cytinus visseri
References
- “Cytinus Hypocistis.” PlantZAfrica.com. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 15 Jan. 2021.
- “Cytinus Hypocistis.” Royal Horticultural Society. Royal Horticultural Society, n.d. Web. 15 Jan. 2021.
- “Cytinus Hypocistis.” The Plant List. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 15 Jan. 2021.
