Contents
Description
Otholobium Thomii is a member of the Fabaceae family, also known as the legume or pea family. It is a flowering plant native to South Africa, specifically the Western Cape Province. This species was first discovered by John Medley Wood in 1861 and named after Thomas Maclear, a Scottish astronomer. The plant is commonly known for its beautiful yellow flowers that bloom in spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Otholobium |
Appearance
Otholobium Thomii is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 1 meter tall. It has small, oval-shaped leaves that are green in color and grow in a spiral pattern along the stem. The flowers of this plant are bright yellow and are arranged in clusters at the end of the stem. Each flower is about 2 centimeters in diameter and has five petals. The plant blooms in spring and summer, and its flowers attract bees and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Water: Otholobium Thomii prefers well-drained soil and does not require much water. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.Fertilization: This plant does not require regular fertilization. However, you can fertilize it once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Otholobium Thomii prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. A sandy or loamy soil is ideal.Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Otholobium Thomii is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Otholobium Thomii is generally a healthy plant and is not often affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. If you notice any infestations, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can also occur if the plant is overwatered or planted in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
Otholobium Thomii is native to the Western Cape Province of South Africa. It grows in sandy or loamy soils in fynbos and renosterveld vegetation types.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Otholobium Thomii tolerate drought?
A: Yes, this plant can tolerate drought and does not require much water.Q: How often should I fertilize Otholobium Thomii?
A: You only need to fertilize this plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.Q: What is the ideal soil type for Otholobium Thomii?
A: Otholobium Thomii prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. A sandy or loamy soil is ideal.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Otholobium Thomii?
A: Otholobium Thomii is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Related Plants
- Otholobium Hirtum
- Otholobium Stipulare
- Otholobium Vexillarium
References
- https://www.prota4u.org/database/protav8.asp?g=pe&p=Otholobium+thomii+J.M.Wood
- https://www.sanbi.org/creature/otholobium-thomii/
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/otholobium-plants/growing-otholobium.htm
