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Description
Dolichothrix Ericoides, also known as the wire vine, is a perennial succulent plant native to South Africa. It is a member of the Asparagaceae family and is widely used as a ground cover in landscaping. The plant is characterized by its long, thin, wiry stems and small, fleshy leaves that resemble needles. It can grow up to 6 inches tall and 2 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for filling in gaps between other plants or creating a low-maintenance border.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Dolichothrix |
| Species | Ericoides |
Appearance
The wire vine has long, thin, wiry stems that grow up to 2 feet long. The stems are covered in small, fleshy leaves that resemble needles and can range in color from bright green to dark purple. The plant can grow up to 6 inches tall and 2 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for ground cover or as a trailing plant in containers. During the summer, small, star-shaped white flowers may appear on the plant, adding to its overall beauty.
Care Guide
Wire vine is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It requires well-draining soil and should be watered thoroughly once a week during the growing season. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Wire vine is generally resistant to pests and diseases but can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Spider mites may also be a problem, especially in hot, dry weather. Keeping the plant well-watered and periodically spraying it with water can help prevent spider mite infestations.
Habitat
Wire vine is native to South Africa, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, coastal dunes, and scrublands. In the United States, it is commonly used as a ground cover in landscaping and as a trailing plant in containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can wire vine be grown indoors?
A: Yes, wire vine can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location. It prefers well-draining soil and should be watered thoroughly once a week.
Q: How often should wire vine be fertilized?
A: Wire vine does not require fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
Q: Is wire vine drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, wire vine is drought-tolerant and can survive extended periods of dry weather once established.
Q: Can wire vine be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, wire vine can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Simply cut a 2-3 inch section of stem, remove the lower leaves, and plant the cutting in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Dolichothrix Balcanica
- Dolichothrix Glabra
- Dolichothrix Hispida
- Dolichothrix Longissima
References
- “Dolichothrix Ericoides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b438.
- “Wire Vine – Dolichothrix Ericoides.” Plant Care Today, 23 Apr. 2021, plantcaretoday.com/wire-vine-dolichothrix-ericoides.
- “Dolichothrix Ericoides.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/dolicheric.htm.
