Contents
Description
Dicerandra Linearifolia, also known as the slenderflower mint, is a perennial plant that belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is native to Florida and can be found in sandy areas, pine rocklands, and scrub habitats. The plant is known for its sweet fragrance and compact growth habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Dicerandra |
Appearance
The slenderflower mint has a small, compact growth habit that reaches a height of 1-2 feet. The leaves are linear and narrow, about 1 inch long and 1/8 inch wide. The plant produces small, tubular flowers that are pink-purple in color and have a sweet fragrance. The flowers bloom from August to October.
Care Guide
The slenderflower mint is an easy plant to care for. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Fertilizer should be applied in the spring and summer. The plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The slenderflower mint is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. Regular inspection of the plant is recommended to prevent infestations. If infestations occur, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used to control the pests.
Habitat
The slenderflower mint is native to Florida and can be found in sandy areas, pine rocklands, and scrub habitats. It is a common plant in the Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the slenderflower mint an invasive species?
A: No, the slenderflower mint is not considered an invasive species.
Q: Can the slenderflower mint be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the slenderflower mint can be grown in containers as long as it has well-drained soil and full sun exposure.
Q: Does the slenderflower mint attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the slenderflower mint is attractive to bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should the slenderflower mint be fertilized?
A: Fertilizer should be applied in the spring and summer.
Related Plants
- Dicerandra frutescens
- Dicerandra immaculata
- Dicerandra christmanii
- Dicerandra fumella
References
- “Dicerandra Linearifolia.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – The University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=DILI.
- “Dicerandra.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 29 Sept. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dicerandra.
- “Slenderflower Mint.” National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, www.nps.gov/ever/learn/nature/slenderflower-mint.htm.
