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Description
Heliophila Macra is a beautiful, annual plant species that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is known for its delicate, blue flowers that bloom in early spring. The plant grows up to 30 cm tall and 20 cm wide and has an upright, bushy habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Heliophila |
Appearance
Heliophila Macra has small, lance-shaped leaves that are green and slightly hairy. The flowers are the main attraction, with their delicate, blue petals that form clusters at the top of the stems. The plant blooms in early spring and can continue to flower all the way into summer. The flowers are also slightly fragrant, making them a popular choice for cut flower arrangements.
Care Guide
To care for Heliophila Macra, it is important to provide it with the right growing conditions. Here are some tips:- Water: The plant needs regular watering, but make sure to allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions.- Fertilization: Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Heliophila Macra needs full sun to thrive.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Heliophila Macra is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can sometimes be affected by aphids or whiteflies. If you notice any infestations, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered, so make sure to let the soil dry out between watering sessions.
Habitat
Heliophila Macra is native to South Africa and can be found growing in sandy or rocky soils in grasslands, savannas, and scrublands. The plant is also commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall does Heliophila Macra grow?
A: Heliophila Macra can grow up to 30 cm tall.
Q: What kind of soil does Heliophila Macra prefer?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What kind of pests can affect Heliophila Macra?
A: The plant can be affected by aphids or whiteflies.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Heliophila Macra?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Related Plants
– Heliophila Coronopifolia- Heliophila Longifolia- Heliophila Pinnatifida- Heliophila Rigida- Heliophila Tenella
References
– “Heliophila Macra.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 9 August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286816&isprofile=0&letter=h.- “Heliophila Macra.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed 9 August 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/heliophila-macra.
