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Description
Hippia Frutescens, commonly known as the “Lemon Bush” or “Wild Verbena,” is a species of flowering plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the family Verbenaceae and is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to its fragrant lemon-scented leaves and showy flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Genus | Hippia |
Appearance
Hippia Frutescens is a woody shrub that can grow up to 2 meters in height. It has glossy green leaves that are lance-shaped and emit a strong lemon fragrance when rubbed. The flowers bloom in clusters at the end of the branches, and they are tubular with five petals ranging in color from white to light purple. The plant produces small, round, dark-brown fruits that contain four seeds each.
Care Guide
Water: Hippia Frutescens prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. It should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season, and the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings.
Fertilization: The plant requires a balanced fertilizer applied in the spring and summer months. Use a slow-release granular fertilizer and apply according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It can tolerate slightly alkaline soil but prefers slightly acidic soil.
Sunlight: Hippia Frutescens prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It should be planted in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Common pests that can affect Hippia Frutescens include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Diseases that can affect the plant include powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot.
Habitat
Hippia Frutescens is native to South Africa and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, shrublands, and forests. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hippia Frutescens toxic to pets?
A: No, the plant is not toxic to pets.
Q: Can Hippia Frutescens be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a sunny location.
Q: How often should Hippia Frutescens be pruned?
A: The plant should be pruned in the spring to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth.
Q: How long does it take for Hippia Frutescens to flower?
A: The plant typically flowers in the summer months, approximately 3-4 months after planting.
Related Plants
- Hippia Indica
- Hippia Hirsuta
- Hippia Capitata
References
- “Hippia Frutescens.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantgh/hippiafrut.htm.
- “Hippia Frutescens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c649.
- “Lemon Bush (Hippia Frutescens).” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/lemon-bush/lemon-bush-plant.htm.
