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Description
Kunzea Tenuicaulis, also known as Silver Kunzea, is a small shrub that is native to Australia. It is a member of the Myrtaceae family and is known for its beautiful silver-grey foliage, which makes it a popular ornamental plant. The plant is evergreen and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It produces small white flowers in the summer months, which are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Kunzea |
Appearance
Kunzea Tenuicaulis has long, narrow leaves that are silver-grey in color. The leaves are around 2-3cm long and 1-2mm wide. The plant produces small white flowers that are around 1cm in diameter. The flowers are produced in clusters and are attractive to bees and other pollinators. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and has a bushy habit.
Care Guide
Kunzea Tenuicaulis is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The plant should be watered regularly, but not over-watered as this can lead to root rot. It is recommended to fertilize the plant with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring. The plant prefers full sun, but can tolerate some shade. It is hardy to USDA Zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kunzea Tenuicaulis is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if over-watered.
Habitat
Kunzea Tenuicaulis is native to Australia and can be found in a variety of habitats, including heathlands, woodlands, and forests. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of soil types and climatic conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Kunzea Tenuicaulis a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Kunzea Tenuicaulis is a relatively easy plant to care for and is a good choice for beginners.
Q: Can Kunzea Tenuicaulis be grown indoors?
A: While Kunzea Tenuicaulis can be grown indoors, it prefers full sun and may not thrive in low-light conditions.
Q: How often should Kunzea Tenuicaulis be fertilized?
A: Kunzea Tenuicaulis should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: Does Kunzea Tenuicaulis attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Kunzea Tenuicaulis produces small white flowers that are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Kunzea ambigua
- Kunzea ericoides
- Kunzea pomifera
- Kunzea baxteri
References
- “Kunzea tenuicaulis.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia), 2021, https://anpsa.org.au/k-ten.html.
- “Kunzea tenuicaulis.” PlantNET – NSW Flora Online, Royal Botanic Gardens & Domain Trust, Sydney Australia, 2021, http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Kunzea~tenuicaulis.
- “Kunzea tenuicaulis.” Florabank, Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, Australian Government, 2021, https://www.florabank.org.au/lucid/key/species%20navigator/media/html/Kunzea_tenuicaulis.htm.
