Contents
Description
Houstonia Pusilla is a small flowering plant that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is commonly known as Innocence or Bluets and is found in eastern North America. The plant has a small, delicate appearance with pale blue or white flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. Houstonia Pusilla is an annual plant that grows up to 2-8 inches tall and 2-6 inches wide. This plant is a great addition to any garden, especially those that are native to North America.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Houstonia |
| Species | Pusilla |
Appearance
Houstonia Pusilla is a small, delicate plant that grows in a rosette pattern. Its leaves are small, narrow, and oval-shaped, with a dark green color. The flowers of this plant are pale blue or white, and they have four petals and a yellow center. The flowers bloom in clusters, making them appear like a carpet on the ground. The plant has a fibrous root system, making it easy to transplant.
Care Guide
Water
Houstonia Pusilla prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, but do not let the soil become waterlogged.
Fertilization
This plant does not require much fertilization. A balanced fertilizer applied once a month during the growing season is sufficient.
Soil
Houstonia Pusilla thrives in well-drained, acidic soil. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have a pH range of 4.5 to 6.5.
Sunlight
This plant prefers partial to full sun exposure. It can tolerate shade but will not bloom as prolifically.
Hardiness Zones
Houstonia Pusilla can grow in hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Houstonia Pusilla is not prone to major pest or disease problems. However, spider mites, aphids, and slugs may damage the plant. Powdery mildew may also develop in humid conditions.
Habitat
Houstonia Pusilla is native to eastern North America and can be found growing in open fields, meadows, and along the edges of woodlands. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can grow in both sun and shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Houstonia Pusilla a perennial or annual plant?
A: Houstonia Pusilla is an annual plant.
Q: What is the ideal pH range for the soil to grow Houstonia Pusilla?
A: The ideal pH range for the soil to grow Houstonia Pusilla is 4.5 to 6.5.
Q: Does Houstonia Pusilla require a lot of fertilization?
A: No, Houstonia Pusilla does not require much fertilization. A balanced fertilizer applied once a month during the growing season is sufficient.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Houstonia Pusilla?
A: The common pests that affect Houstonia Pusilla are spider mites, aphids, and slugs. The common disease that affects this plant is powdery mildew.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Houstonia genus include:
- Houstonia Caerulea (Bluets)
- Houstonia Longifolia (Longleaf Summer Bluet)
- Houstonia Serpyllifolia (Thymeleaf Bluet)
References
- “Houstonia pusilla.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d871.
- “Houstonia pusilla.” USDA, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=HOPU.
- “Innocence.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=HOCA.
