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Description
Lithodora Diffusa Grace Ward, also known as Grace Ward Lithodora, is a low-growing evergreen plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. This plant is native to the western Mediterranean region, particularly in Spain and Portugal. It is a popular ornamental plant known for its striking blue flowers that bloom in spring and summer, and its glossy green leaves that stay on the plant year-round.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Lithodora |
Appearance
Lithodora Diffusa Grace Ward is a prostrate or sprawling plant that grows up to 1 foot tall and 3 feet wide. It has glossy dark green leaves that are small, narrow, and lance-shaped, measuring about 1-2 inches long. The plant produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers that are bright blue in color, and appear in spring and summer. The flowers have a funnel-shaped throat and are about 1 inch wide. The plant’s foliage remains green and attractive year-round.
Care Guide
Lithodora Diffusa Grace Ward is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. This plant prefers well-draining soil.
- Fertilization: Feed with a slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer to promote healthy growth and blooming.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining, acidic soil. If the soil is too alkaline, the plant may develop iron chlorosis, which causes yellowing leaves.
- Sunlight: Lithodora Diffusa Grace Ward prefers full sun to partial shade. Too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and lose its attractive shape.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lithodora Diffusa Grace Ward is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. To prevent these pests, keep the plant healthy and well-watered. If you notice pests, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Lithodora Diffusa Grace Ward is native to the western Mediterranean region, particularly in Spain and Portugal. It prefers rocky, well-draining soils in sunny or partially shaded areas. It is often found growing in rocky outcrops, slopes, and cliffs.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Lithodora Diffusa Grace Ward?
A: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the best soil for Lithodora Diffusa Grace Ward?
A: Plant in well-draining, acidic soil. If the soil is too alkaline, the plant may develop iron chlorosis, which causes yellowing leaves.
Q: How tall does Lithodora Diffusa Grace Ward grow?
A: Lithodora Diffusa Grace Ward grows up to 1 foot tall and 3 feet wide.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lithodora Diffusa Grace Ward?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Related Plants
- Lithodora zahnii
- Lithodora rosmarinifolia
- Lithodora petraea
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/groundcover/lithodora/growing-lithodora-plants.htm
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/lithodora-diffusa-grace-ward
- https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/698/grace-ward-lithodora/
