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Description
Justicia Americana, commonly known as the American Water Willow, is a hardy perennial plant that belongs to the family Acanthaceae. This native plant is found in the eastern part of the United States, where it grows in and around ponds, streams, and rivers. It is a popular choice for gardeners who want to create a natural, wild look in their gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Justicia |
Appearance
Justicia Americana is a perennial plant that grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has long, narrow leaves that are green in color and grow in pairs along the stem. The leaves are up to 6 inches long and 1 inch wide. The plant produces small, pinkish-purple flowers that bloom from June to September. The flowers are held on spikes that rise above the foliage and can reach up to 3 feet tall.
Care Guide
Water
Justicia Americana prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Justicia Americana does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer is sufficient.
Soil
Justicia Americana prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils.
Sunlight
Justicia Americana prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in weak growth and fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones
Justicia Americana is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Justicia Americana is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Justicia Americana is native to the eastern part of the United States, where it grows in and around ponds, streams, and rivers. It can also be found in wetlands and marshes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Justicia Americana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Justicia Americana can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Justicia Americana be fertilized?
A: Justicia Americana does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer is sufficient.
Q: Can Justicia Americana tolerate drought?
A: Justicia Americana prefers moist soil and does not tolerate drought well. It should be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Q: Does Justicia Americana attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Justicia Americana is a pollinator-friendly plant and is known to attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Related Plants
- Justicia Brandegeeana
- Justicia Carnea
- Justicia Aurea
- Justicia Spicigera
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/water-plants/american-water-willow/growing-american-water-willow-plants.htm
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/justicia_americana.shtml
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b626
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=JUAM
