Contents
Description
Johnstonella Pusilla is a small, herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Campanulaceae. It is commonly known as the “Pygmy Bluebell” and is native to the southern United States. The plant is characterized by its delicate, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of blue and purple, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Dicotyledonae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Johnstonella |
Appearance
The Johnstonella Pusilla plant grows to a height of 2-8 inches and spreads to form a dense mat. It has small, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and grow in a rosette pattern. The flowers of the Pygmy Bluebell are bell-shaped and bloom in shades of blue and purple. They have a diameter of about 0.5 inches and are held on short stalks above the foliage.
Care Guide
To care for the Johnstonella Pusilla plant, it is important to provide it with the right conditions. Here are some tips:- Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The Pygmy Bluebell needs full sun to partial shade for optimal growth.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests and Diseases
The Johnstonella Pusilla plant is vulnerable to pests such as spider mites, aphids, and slugs. It is also susceptible to diseases such as rust and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
The Pygmy Bluebell is native to the southern United States, where it grows in sandy and rocky soils in open woodlands and prairies. It is also commonly found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Johnstonella Pusilla plant tolerate drought?
A: While the plant prefers regular watering, it can tolerate short periods of drought.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Pygmy Bluebell?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can the plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Johnstonella Pusilla plant can be grown in containers as long as it has well-draining soil and receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How do I propagate the plant?
A: The Pygmy Bluebell can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
– Campanula Americana- Campanula Rotundifolia- Lobelia Cardinalis- Lobelia Siphilitica
References
– “Johnstonella pusilla.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287891.- “Pygmy Bluebell.” North Carolina State Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/pygmy-bluebell.- “Johnstonella pusilla.” PlantFiles, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/119691/.
