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Description
Ornithopus Perpusillus is a flowering plant from the family of Fabaceae, native to Europe and Africa. It is commonly known as “Bird’s-foot Ornithopus” due to its seed pods resembling bird’s feet. The plant grows up to 30cm in height and is a perennial herb. Ornithopus Perpusillus has small, white or pink flowers that bloom from May to August. The plant is a valuable food source for grazing animals and is also used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Ornithopus |
| Species | Perpusillus |
Appearance
Ornithopus Perpusillus has a sprawling growth habit with thin, wiry stems that are covered in small leaves. The leaves are divided into three leaflets and are a bright green color. The small flowers are either white or pink and grow in clusters, with each cluster containing up to four flowers. The flowers have a unique shape with a long, curved keel that gives them the appearance of a bird’s beak. The seed pods are brown and also resemble bird’s feet, with three to five pods growing from each flower cluster.
Care Guide
Ornithopus Perpusillus is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic and can tolerate drought conditions. Here are some tips for caring for Ornithopus Perpusillus:
Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to encourage healthy growth and blooming.
Soil: Ornithopus Perpusillus prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Amend heavy clay soil with sand or organic matter to improve drainage.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as well.
Hardiness Zones: Ornithopus Perpusillus is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ornithopus Perpusillus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect Ornithopus Perpusillus:
Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Spider mites: These pests can infest the plant and cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves.
Aphids: These pests can damage the plant by feeding on the sap and causing yellowing and curling of the leaves.
Habitat
Ornithopus Perpusillus is native to Europe and Africa and can be found growing in grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ornithopus Perpusillus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Ornithopus Perpusillus can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage.
Q: Is Ornithopus Perpusillus deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Ornithopus Perpusillus is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Ornithopus Perpusillus be used as a ground cover?
A: Yes, Ornithopus Perpusillus can be used as a ground cover in sunny areas with well-drained soil.
Q: How often should Ornithopus Perpusillus be fertilized?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in mid-summer to encourage healthy growth and blooming.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Ornithopus Perpusillus:
- Ornithopus sativus (Serradella)
- Trifolium repens (White Clover)
- Medicago sativa (Alfalfa)
- Lotus corniculatus (Bird’s-foot Trefoil)
References
- “Ornithopus Perpusillus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287044.
- “Ornithopus Perpusillus.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:508387-1.
- “Ornithopus Perpusillus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/13343/i-Ornithopus-perpusillus-i/Details.
