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Description
Moehringia Macrophylla, also known as Large-leaf Sandwort, is a low-growing perennial plant that belongs to the carnation family. It is native to North America and can be found in rocky or gravelly areas, meadows, and open woods. The plant grows up to 10 inches tall and 12 inches wide and produces white or pink flowers in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Moehringia |
Appearance
The Moehringia Macrophylla has large, ovate or elliptic leaves that are up to 2 inches long and 1 inch wide. The leaves are dark green and slightly hairy, and they are arranged opposite each other on the stem. The stem is thin and wiry, and it produces clusters of white or pink flowers that are up to 0.5 inches wide. The flowers have five petals and bloom from late spring to early summer.
Care Guide
The Moehringia Macrophylla is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care once established. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if desired.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. It can tolerate poor soil and rocky or gravelly areas.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Moehringia Macrophylla is generally not susceptible to pests or diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by slugs, snails, or spider mites. To prevent these pests, you can apply a slug or snail bait or spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The Moehringia Macrophylla is native to North America and can be found in rocky or gravelly areas, meadows, and open woods. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Moehringia Macrophylla an invasive species?
A: No, the Moehringia Macrophylla is not considered an invasive species.
Q: Can the Moehringia Macrophylla be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Moehringia Macrophylla can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: Does the Moehringia Macrophylla attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the Moehringia Macrophylla attracts bees and other pollinators with its white or pink flowers.
Q: How long does the Moehringia Macrophylla live?
A: The Moehringia Macrophylla is a perennial plant that can live for several years with proper care.
Related Plants
- Moehringia Lateriflora
- Moehringia Montana
- Moehringia Muscosa
- Moehringia Stellarioides
References
- “Moehringia Macrophylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h840.
- “Moehringia Macrophylla.” Plant Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=MOMA8.
- “Large-leaf Sandwort (Moehringia Macrophylla).” Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=MOMA8.
