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Description
Dampiera Decurrens is an Australian native plant that belongs to the family Goodeniaceae. It is also known as the ‘Sticky Dampiera’ due to the presence of sticky hairs on its stem and leaves. This perennial herb has a prostrate or erect growth habit and can grow up to 60 cm in height. It produces blue or purple flowers that bloom in spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Goodeniaceae |
| Genus | Dampiera |
Appearance
Dampiera Decurrens has green leaves with a sticky texture due to the presence of glandular hairs. Its stem is also covered with sticky hairs. The leaves are oblong to elliptic in shape and can grow up to 6 cm in length. The flowers are tubular in shape and have five petals that are blue or purple in color. They can grow up to 2 cm in length and appear in clusters at the ends of the stems. The plant produces a capsule fruit that contains small seeds.
Care Guide
Dampiera Decurrens is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in sandy or loamy soil. The plant requires regular watering during the growing season but can tolerate periods of drought. Fertilization is not necessary but can be done with a balanced fertilizer in spring. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dampiera Decurrens is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soil. It can also be affected by powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions.
Habitat
Dampiera Decurrens is native to Australia and can be found growing in a variety of habitats including heathlands, woodlands, and rocky outcrops. It is commonly found in Western Australia, South Australia, and New South Wales.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dampiera Decurrens an invasive species?
A: No, Dampiera Decurrens is not considered an invasive species.
Q: Can Dampiera Decurrens be grown indoors?
A: No, Dampiera Decurrens is not suitable for indoor growing as it requires full sun.
Q: How often should Dampiera Decurrens be fertilized?
A: Fertilization is not necessary but can be done with a balanced fertilizer in spring.
Q: How can I propagate Dampiera Decurrens?
A: Dampiera Decurrens can be propagated by seed or by taking stem cuttings in spring or summer.
Related Plants
- Dampiera Linearis
- Dampiera Diversifolia
- Dampiera Rubiginosa
References
- Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). (n.d.). Dampiera decurrens. https://anpsa.org.au/d-dec.html
- Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions. (n.d.). Sticky dampiera. https://florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/22425
- Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. (n.d.). Dampiera decurrens. https://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/Plants/Plant-types/Herbs/Dampiera-decurrens
