Contents
Description
Diascia Barberae Ruby Field, also known as Twinspur Ruby Field, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family. It is a perennial plant that is native to South Africa and is widely cultivated for its colorful and delicate flowers. The plant grows up to 12 inches in height and spreads up to 18 inches. It blooms from spring until fall and produces a profusion of small, ruby-red flowers that are borne on long, wiry stems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Diascia |
Appearance
Diascia Barberae Ruby Field has a compact and mounding habit, with small and narrow leaves that are usually green but can sometimes have a slightly purplish tinge. The flowers are the standout feature of this plant, with a bright and striking ruby-red color that contrasts beautifully with the foliage. The flowers are small and tubular, with two lips that open to reveal a yellow throat. They are borne in clusters on long, wiry stems that rise above the foliage. The plant has a delicate and airy appearance and is perfect for adding color to borders, rock gardens, or as a ground cover.
Care Guide
Diascia Barberae Ruby Field is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in full sun to partial shade. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced, liquid fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant your Diascia Barberae Ruby Field in well-draining, fertile soil that has been amended with organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will produce fewer flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Diascia Barberae Ruby Field is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Diascia Barberae Ruby Field is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Root rot: This can occur if the soil is too wet. Make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause leaf curling. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use a miticide to control them.
Habitat
Diascia Barberae Ruby Field is native to South Africa and is commonly found in grasslands and rocky areas. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate some drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Diascia Barberae Ruby Field a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Diascia Barberae Ruby Field is an easy-to-care-for plant that is perfect for beginners. It is low-maintenance and produces a profusion of colorful flowers.
Q: Can Diascia Barberae Ruby Field be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Diascia Barberae Ruby Field can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I fertilize Diascia Barberae Ruby Field?
A: Fertilize your plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced, liquid fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Diascia Barberae Ruby Field?
A: You can propagate Diascia Barberae Ruby Field by taking softwood cuttings in the spring or by dividing the plant in the fall.
Related Plants
- Diascia Aurora Pink
- Diascia Aurora Apricot
- Diascia Aurora Light Pink
- Diascia Aurora Red
References
- “Diascia Barberae Ruby Field.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j500.
- “Diascia Barberae Ruby Field.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/diascia-barberae-ruby-field-twinspur.
- “Diascia Barberae.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/249449/Diascia-Barberae-Ruby-Field-(PBR)/Details.
