Mitella Formosana

Description

Mitella Formosana, commonly known as Taiwan Mitrewort, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. This plant is native to Taiwan and grows in the mountainous regions. It can grow up to a height of 20-30 cm and forms clumps of basal leaves. The plant blooms in spring and produces small, white or pinkish flowers that are about 2-3mm wide.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Mitella Formosana has a rosette of basal leaves that are green above and purplish below. The leaves are heart-shaped with a toothed margin and are about 5-10 cm long. The stem is thin and erect, with a cluster of small flowers at the top. The flowers are white or pinkish and are about 2-3mm wide. The plant blooms in spring and attracts bees and other pollinators.

Care Guide

Water: Mitella Formosana prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.Fertilization: Feed Mitella Formosana with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Mitella Formosana prefers slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be well-drained and moist.Sunlight: Plant Mitella Formosana in a shaded or partially shaded area. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Mitella Formosana is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Mitella Formosana is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant. Slugs and snails may also feed on the leaves, but can be controlled by handpicking or using a slug bait.

Habitat

Mitella Formosana is native to Taiwan and grows in the mountainous regions. It prefers to grow in shaded areas, such as forests and woodland edges. The plant is adapted to the cool and moist climate of its natural habitat and can tolerate frost.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Mitella Formosana a rare plant?
A: Mitella Formosana is not considered rare, but it is native to Taiwan and may not be commonly found in other parts of the world.Q: Can Mitella Formosana be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Mitella Formosana can be grown in a container as long as it is kept moist and shaded.Q: How often should I water Mitella Formosana?
A: Water Mitella Formosana regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.Q: When does Mitella Formosana bloom?
A: Mitella Formosana blooms in spring and produces small, white or pinkish flowers.

Related Plants

• Mitella Diphylla
• Mitella Nuda
• Mitella Ovalis

References

• Flora of Taiwan
• Plant Finder
• Gardening Know How
• RHS