Contents
Description
Otholobium Fruticans, also known as the Cape broom, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is often used as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers. The plant can grow up to three meters tall and has a spreading habit. It has small, oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color and grow in pairs along the stem. The flowers are yellow and bloom in spring and summer, forming clusters at the end of the branches.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Otholobium |
Appearance
Otholobium Fruticans has a woody stem that can grow up to three meters tall. Its leaves are small, oval-shaped, and dark green in color. The flowers are yellow and bloom in clusters at the end of the branches. The plant has a spreading habit, and its branches can be quite flexible.
Care Guide
Otholobium Fruticans is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. The plant does not require frequent fertilization but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer once a year. It requires full sun to bloom, but it can tolerate partial shade. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8a to 11b.
Common Pests & Diseases
Otholobium Fruticans is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and thrips. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soil. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained and that the plant is not overwatered.
Habitat
Otholobium Fruticans is native to South Africa and is found in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces. It grows in open scrubland and fynbos vegetation, which is characterized by a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Otholobium Fruticans toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Otholobium Fruticans is toxic to pets and should be kept out of reach.
Q: How often should I water my Otholobium Fruticans?
A: Otholobium Fruticans should be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Can Otholobium Fruticans grow in partial shade?
A: Yes, Otholobium Fruticans can tolerate partial shade, but it requires full sun to bloom.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Otholobium Fruticans?
A: Otholobium Fruticans is hardy in USDA zones 8a to 11b.
Related Plants
- Otholobium Stipulaceum
- Otholobium Hirtum
- Otholobium Pulchrum
References
- PlantZAfrica. (n.d.). Otholobium fruticans. Retrieved from https://pza.sanbi.org/otholobium-fruticans
- Gardening Know How. (n.d.). Cape Broom Care: Growing Cape Broom Plants In The Garden. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/cape-broom/growing-cape-broom-plants.htm
- RHS. (n.d.). Otholobium fruticans. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/18809/Otholobium-fruticans/Details
