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Description
Hovea Elliptica, also known as the Oval-leaf Hovea, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Australia and can grow up to 2 meters tall. It has elliptical leaves that are about 5-10cm long and 2-4cm wide. The flowers of Hovea Elliptica are blue and bloom from winter to spring. The plant’s seed pods are brown and are about 4cm long and 1.5cm wide. Hovea Elliptica is commonly used in landscaping due to its attractive blue flowers and evergreen foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Hovea |
Appearance
Hovea Elliptica is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall. It has elliptical leaves that are about 5-10cm long and 2-4cm wide. The leaves are dark green and have a leathery texture. The flowers of Hovea Elliptica are blue and bloom from winter to spring. The flowers are about 2cm long and are arranged in clusters at the ends of the branches. The plant’s seed pods are brown and are about 4cm long and 1.5cm wide.
Care Guide
Water
Hovea Elliptica prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be waterlogged. It is important to water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. The plant should be watered deeply once a week, and the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization
Hovea Elliptica does not require frequent fertilization. However, it can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring. Fertilizer should be applied according to the instructions on the package.
Soil
Hovea Elliptica prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The soil should be rich in organic matter and should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Sunlight
Hovea Elliptica prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not bloom as well in low light conditions.
Hardiness Zones
Hovea Elliptica is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hovea Elliptica is susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and by avoiding overhead watering. The plant can also be affected by spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Hovea Elliptica is native to Australia and is found in a variety of habitats, including heathlands, woodlands, and forests. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Hovea Elliptica?
A: Hovea Elliptica should be watered deeply once a week, and the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Hovea Elliptica require fertilizer?
A: Hovea Elliptica does not require frequent fertilization. However, it can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring.
Q: What pests and diseases are common to Hovea Elliptica?
A: Hovea Elliptica is susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. It can also be affected by spider mites and aphids.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Hovea Elliptica?
A: Hovea Elliptica is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Hovea acutifolia
- Hovea asperifolia
- Hovea cuneata
- Hovea longifolia
References
- “Hovea elliptica.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). Accessed 25 March 2021. https://anpsa.org.au/h-ell.html
- “Hovea elliptica.” PlantNet. Accessed 25 March 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Hovea~elliptica
- “Hovea elliptica.” Florabank. Accessed 25 March 2021. http://www.florabank.org.au/lucid/key/species%20navigator/media/html/Hovea_elliptica.htm
