Obolaria

Description

Obolaria is a genus of flowering plants in the family Gentianaceae. Native to North America, this genus consists of three species of annual and perennial herbs. The plants typically have simple leaves and small white to pink flowers that bloom in early spring. The genus is named after the Greek word obolus, which refers to a small coin, reflecting the small size of the plants.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Gentianales
Family	Gentianaceae
Genus	Obolaria

Appearance

Obolaria plants are small and delicate, with simple leaves that grow in a rosette. The leaves are typically ovate to lanceolate and have a smooth texture. The flowers are small, white to pink, and grow in clusters at the tip of the stem. The petals are fused at the base and are lobed at the tips. The plants bloom in early spring and are often found growing in moist, shaded areas.

Care Guide

To care for Obolaria plants, keep the following factors in mind:

Water: Obolaria plants prefer moist soil, so water regularly to keep the soil consistently damp.

Fertilization: Obolaria plants do not require fertilization.

Soil: Obolaria plants grow best in well-draining, humus-rich soil with a slightly acidic pH.

Sunlight: Obolaria plants prefer partial to full shade, making them an ideal choice for woodland gardens.

Hardiness Zones: Obolaria plants are hardy in zones 5 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Obolaria plants are generally free from pests and diseases, but they can occasionally suffer from foliar nematodes, which cause yellowing and distortion of the leaves. To prevent this, remove and destroy any affected leaves and avoid wetting the foliage during watering.

Habitat

Obolaria plants are native to North America, where they are often found growing in moist, shaded areas such as woodlands and along streambanks. They prefer well-draining, humus-rich soil and partial to full shade.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the meaning of the genus name Obolaria?

A: The genus name Obolaria comes from the Greek word obolus, which means a small coin, reflecting the small size of the plants.

Q: Are Obolaria plants difficult to grow?

A: Obolaria plants are not difficult to grow as long as they are given the right conditions, including moist soil, partial to full shade, and well-draining, humus-rich soil.

Q: Can Obolaria plants be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Obolaria plants can be grown in containers as long as the containers are large enough to accommodate the plants’ roots and the soil is kept consistently moist.

Q: Are Obolaria plants attractive to pollinators?

A: Yes, Obolaria plants are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are important for their reproduction.

Related Plants

Other plants in the Gentianaceae family include:

• Gentiana
• Centaurium
• Swertia
• Sabbatia

References

• Flora of North America
• RHS A-Z Encyclopedia of Garden Plants
• The Plant List
• Missouri Botanical Garden