Contents
Description
Gnidia Penicillata is a flowering plant that belongs to the Thymelaeaceae family. It is commonly found in Africa, particularly in the countries of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The plant grows up to 2 meters tall and produces small, yellow flowers that bloom in clusters. The plant is also known as the “yellow whiskers” due to the appearance of its flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Thymelaeaceae |
| Genus | Gnidia |
Appearance
Gnidia Penicillata has slender stems with small, narrow leaves that are green in color. The leaves grow opposite each other on the stem and are up to 5 cm long. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that are arranged in clusters at the end of the stems. The flowers have long, yellow stamens that give the plant its characteristic “whiskers” appearance. The fruit of the plant is a small capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Gnidia Penicillata requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of temperatures. In terms of water, the plant prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant with a slow-release fertilizer every six months. The plant can be propagated from seed or cuttings.
Water
Water Gnidia Penicillata regularly but avoid overwatering. The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant every six months with a slow-release fertilizer.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight
Gnidia Penicillata prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
The plant can tolerate a range of temperatures and is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gnidia Penicillata is susceptible to root rot if overwatered. The plant may also be attacked by spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Gnidia Penicillata is commonly found in grasslands, woodlands, and savannas in Africa. The plant is often used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including malaria and snakebites.
Question and Answer
Q: What is Gnidia Penicillata commonly known as?
A: Gnidia Penicillata is commonly known as “yellow whiskers.”
Q: What is the preferred soil type for Gnidia Penicillata?
A: Gnidia Penicillata prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What are the common pests that attack Gnidia Penicillata?
A: Gnidia Penicillata may be attacked by spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Gnidia Penicillata?
A: Gnidia Penicillata is hardy in zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Gnidia Kraussiana
- Gnidia Polystachya
- Gnidia Submontana
References
- “Gnidia penicillata.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed 18 Oct. 2021.
- “Gnidia penicillata (Thymelaeaceae).” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute. Accessed 18 Oct. 2021.
- Watt, John M., and Maria G. Breyer-Brandwijk. The Medicinal and Poisonous Plants of Southern and Eastern Africa. Livingstone, 1962.
