Lessertia

Description

Lessertia is a genus of plants that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to southern Africa and is commonly known as the “bushveld cluster pea.” The plants are characterized by their unique appearance, with slender stems and small, delicate leaves that form into clusters. The flowers are typically pink, purple, or white and bloom in the summer months.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Lessertia plant has a unique appearance with slender stems and small, delicate leaves that form into clusters. The flowers are typically pink, purple, or white and bloom in the summer months. The plant can grow up to 2 meters tall and has a woody stem.

Care Guide

Lessertia requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some tips:

• Water: The plant requires moderate watering. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause the roots to rot.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
• Soil: Lessertia prefers well-draining soil. Use a sandy or loamy soil mix with organic matter added for best results.
• Sunlight: The plant requires full sunlight to thrive.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Lessertia is susceptible to various pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common:

• Aphids: These small insects feed on the plant’s sap and can cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control infestations.
• Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause leaf discoloration and webbing on the plant. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control infestations.
• Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, leading to wilting and yellowing leaves. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent this.

Habitat

Lessertia is native to southern Africa and is commonly found in dry, savanna-like habitats. The plant thrives in well-draining soil and full sunlight.

Question and Answer

Q: How tall can a Lessertia plant grow?
A: A Lessertia plant can grow up to 2 meters tall.

Q: What kind of soil does Lessertia prefer?
A: Lessertia prefers well-draining soil. Use a sandy or loamy soil mix with organic matter added for best results.

Q: What pests commonly affect Lessertia?
A: Lessertia is susceptible to pests such as aphids and spider mites.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lessertia?
A: Lessertia is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Related Plants

• Clitoria
• Crotalaria
• Indigofera
• Lathyrus
• Pisum

References

• “Lessertia.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/lessertiamult.htm. Accessed 10 Dec. 2021.
• “Lessertia.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=116952. Accessed 10 Dec. 2021.
• “Lessertia.” Flora of Zimbabwe, www.zimbabweflora.co.zw/speciesdata/genus.php?genus_id=543. Accessed 10 Dec. 2021.