Contents
Description
Lebeckia Gracilis, also known as the Slender Lebeckia, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to South Africa, where it is commonly found in the Western Cape Province. It is a hardy, drought-resistant plant that can grow up to 60 cm tall. The plant has green, slender leaves that are about 4 cm long, and yellow flowers that bloom from October to December. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and are about 1 cm in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lebeckia |
Appearance
Lebeckia Gracilis is a small, woody shrub that grows up to 60 cm tall. It has green, slender leaves that are about 4 cm long and 1 mm wide. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and have a pointed tip. The plant produces yellow flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. The flowers have five petals and are arranged in clusters at the ends of the stems. Lebeckia Gracilis blooms from October to December and has a sweet fragrance.
Care Guide
Lebeckia Gracilis is a hardy, drought-resistant plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Lebeckia Gracilis can tolerate drought but will benefit from occasional watering during dry spells.- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer once a year.- Soil: Lebeckia Gracilis prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate poor soil conditions.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Lebeckia Gracilis is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lebeckia Gracilis is generally a disease-free plant but may be susceptible to aphids and mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to ensure the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Lebeckia Gracilis is native to South Africa, where it is commonly found in the Western Cape Province. It grows in sandy soils and rocky outcrops in fynbos and renosterveld vegetation types.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lebeckia Gracilis tolerate frost?
A: No, this plant is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Q: How often should I water my Lebeckia Gracilis?
A: This plant can tolerate drought but will benefit from occasional watering during dry spells.
Q: Does Lebeckia Gracilis attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the yellow flowers of this plant attract bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Lebeckia Gracilis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and is watered occasionally.
Related Plants
– Lebeckia Multiflora- Lebeckia Sericea- Lebeckia Pauciflora- Lebeckia Odorata
References
– PlantZAfrica. (n.d.). Lebeckia gracilis. Retrieved from http://pza.sanbi.org/lebeckia-gracilis- South African National Biodiversity Institute. (n.d.). Lebeckia gracilis. Retrieved from http://redlist.sanbi.org/species.php?species=3115-5
