Contents
Description
Diascia Lilac Belle is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Scrophulariaceae. It is native to South Africa and is commonly known as Twinspur. The plant is prized for its delicate and dainty flowers that bloom in shades of pink, white, and purple. It is a popular choice for gardeners who want to add a touch of elegance to their landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Diascia |
Appearance
Diascia Lilac Belle has a compact and bushy growth habit that reaches a height of 8-10 inches and a spread of 12-18 inches. The plant produces small, ovate, and light green leaves that are arranged opposite each other on the stem. The flowers are borne on long, slender stems that arise from the axils of the leaves. The blooms have a tubular shape with two lobes at the top that resemble a pair of spurs. The petals are arranged in pairs and are fused, forming a tube.
Care Guide
Diascia Lilac Belle requires proper care to thrive and produce an abundance of flowers. Here are some care tips:- Water: The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water it regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers a fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Diascia Lilac Belle is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves.- Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the underside of the leaves, causing yellowing and weakening of the plant.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, causing them to yellow and die.Preventive measures include planting the plant in a well-ventilated area, avoiding overhead watering, and applying insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control pests and diseases.
Habitat
Diascia Lilac Belle is native to South Africa and grows in rocky slopes and grasslands. It prefers a sunny and well-drained habitat.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Diascia Lilac Belle?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Make sure the soil is moist but well-drained.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Diascia Lilac Belle?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: How tall does Diascia Lilac Belle grow?
A: The plant reaches a height of 8-10 inches and a spread of 12-18 inches.
Q: How do I propagate Diascia Lilac Belle?
A: Propagate the plant by taking stem cuttings in the spring or by dividing the plant in the fall.
Related Plants
– Diascia Barberae- Diascia Breezee Apricot- Diascia Breezee White
References
– “Diascia Lilac Belle.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=275937&isprofile=0&.- “Diascia Lilac Belle.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/57884/Diascia-Lilac-Belle/Details.- “Diascia Lilac Belle.” Gardenia.net. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/diascia-lilac-belle.
