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Description
Othonna Perfoliata, commonly known as the ‘Dollar Plant’, is a beautiful succulent that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South Africa and Namibia and is widely grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and homes. The plant is characterized by its fleshy, green, and almost circular leaves that resemble silver dollars. It has a unique and distinct appearance that makes it stand out from other plants.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Othonna |
Appearance
The Othonna Perfoliata plant is a small, succulent shrub that can grow up to 12 inches in height and spread up to 18 inches wide. The leaves of the plant are almost circular, fleshy, and green with a silver tint. The leaves are arranged in a rosette formation and have a unique perfoliate base that surrounds the stem. The stem of the plant is thin, woody, and brown. The plant produces yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom in the summer.
Care Guide
Othonna Perfoliata is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips for growing and maintaining this beautiful succulent:
Water: The plant requires well-drained soil and does not tolerate wet feet. Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring and summer months with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize the plant during the winter months.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Use a cactus or succulent mix for best results.
Sunlight: The plant requires bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct sunlight but too much can damage the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Othonna Perfoliata is a relatively pest and disease-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. Keep an eye out for any signs of infestation and treat accordingly. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, so be careful not to overwater the plant.
Habitat
Othonna Perfoliata is native to South Africa and Namibia. In its natural habitat, the plant grows in rocky or sandy soil and is found in dry, arid regions. It is a drought-tolerant plant that has adapted to survive in harsh conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Othonna Perfoliata a good indoor plant?
A: Yes, Othonna Perfoliata is an excellent indoor plant that does well in bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should I water my Othonna Perfoliata?
A: Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry. Depending on the humidity and temperature, this can be once a week or every two weeks.
Q: Can I propagate my Othonna Perfoliata?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated through stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. Allow the cuttings to dry for a few days before planting them in well-drained soil.
Q: How big does Othonna Perfoliata grow?
A: Othonna Perfoliata can grow up to 12 inches in height and spread up to 18 inches wide.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Othonna Perfoliata:
- Othonna Capensis
- Othonna Crassifolia
- Othonna Obpyriformis
- Othonna Serrulata
References
- ‘Othonna Perfoliata.’ Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 29 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c874>.
- ‘Othonna Perfoliata.’ PlantZAfrica.com. Accessed 29 May 2021. <http://pza.sanbi.org/othonna-perfoliata>.
- ‘Othonna Perfoliata.’ World of Succulents. Accessed 29 May 2021. <https://worldofsucculents.com/othonna-perfoliata-dwarf-senecio/>.
