Contents
Description
Lithophragma Affine is a perennial wildflower that belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. This plant is commonly known as ‘Woodland Star’ and is native to North America. The plant grows up to 1-2 feet tall and blooms from May to June. The flowers are star-shaped, 1-2 inches in diameter, and have five petals. The petals are usually white, but they can also be pink, lavender, or purple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Lithophragma |
Appearance
Lithophragma Affine has a basal rosette of leaves that are lobed and toothed. The stem is slender, hairy, and reddish-brown. The leaves are about 1-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The flowers are borne on a long stem that rises above the foliage. The fruit is a small capsule that contains numerous seeds. The plant prefers to grow in moist, shady areas and is often found in wooded areas, meadows, and slopes.
Care Guide
Water
Lithophragma Affine prefers moist soil but can tolerate dry soil conditions. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, especially during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Soil
The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
Sunlight
Lithophragma Affine prefers partial to full shade and can tolerate full sun if the soil is kept moist.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lithophragma Affine is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Insect pests such as aphids and spider mites may also affect the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Lithophragma Affine is native to North America and is commonly found in moist, shady areas such as wooded areas, meadows, and slopes. The plant is often used in woodland gardens and naturalized areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lithophragma Affine an invasive plant?
A: No, Lithophragma Affine is not considered an invasive plant.
Q: Can Lithophragma Affine tolerate dry soil conditions?
A: Yes, Lithophragma Affine can tolerate dry soil conditions.
Q: What is the blooming period of Lithophragma Affine?
A: Lithophragma Affine blooms from May to June.
Q: Is Lithophragma Affine pest and disease-free?
A: Lithophragma Affine is generally pest and disease-free but may be susceptible to fungal diseases and insect pests.
Related Plants
- Lithophragma glabrum
- Lithophragma tenellum
- Lithophragma maximum
- Lithophragma parviflorum
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LIAF
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/lithophragma-affine-woodland-star
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a666
