Contents
Description
Otholobium Racemosum is a perennial plant native to South Africa. It is a member of the Fabaceae family and is commonly referred to as the Cape Rush Pea. The plant produces small, purple flowers that bloom from July to September. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its unique appearance and hardiness.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Otholobium |
Appearance
The Otholobium Racemosum plant has thin, green stems that stand upright and grow up to 1 meter tall. The leaves are small, oblong, and light green in color. The plant produces small, purple flowers that bloom in clusters on the top of the stems. The flowers are approximately 1cm in diameter and have a unique, almost metallic appearance. The plant’s foliage and flowers are quite delicate, making it an elegant addition to any garden or landscape.
Care Guide
Otholobium Racemosum is a relatively easy plant to care for. It is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 8 to 10 and prefers well-draining soil. Here are some additional care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but do not allow the soil to become waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Otholobium Racemosum prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Otholobium Racemosum is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests and Diseases
Otholobium Racemosum is generally free of pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-draining. Additionally, the plant may be attractive to aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
Otholobium Racemosum is native to the Western Cape of South Africa. It grows naturally in grasslands, fynbos, and rocky outcroppings. The plant prefers well-draining soil and is drought-tolerant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Otholobium Racemosum a good plant for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, Otholobium Racemosum is a relatively easy plant to care for and is a good choice for beginner gardeners.
Q: Can Otholobium Racemosum be grown indoors?
A: No, Otholobium Racemosum is an outdoor plant and does not do well indoors.
Q: How often should I fertilize Otholobium Racemosum?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Otholobium Racemosum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces small, purple flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Otholobium Stipulatum
- Otholobium Vexillarium
- Otholobium Hirtum
References
- “Otholobium racemosum.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2003, www.plantzafrica.com/plantnop/opuntior.htm.
- “Otholobium racemosum.” Royal Horticultural Society, 2021, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16585/Otholobium-racemosum/Details.
- “Otholobium racemosum.” San Marcos Growers, 2021, www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=3683.
