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Description
Phylica Strigulosa, also known as the Blombos Phylica, is a shrub that is native to South Africa. It is a member of the family Rhamnaceae and is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance. It has an upright growth habit and can reach a height of up to 2 meters (6.5 feet). The leaves are small and needle-like, measuring around 5-12mm long and 1mm wide. The flowers are small and white, measuring around 3-4mm in diameter. The fruit is a small, dry capsule that contains a single seed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rhamnales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Phylica |
Appearance
Phylica Strigulosa has an attractive appearance due to its small, needle-like leaves and white flowers. The leaves are green and measure around 5-12mm long and 1mm wide. The flowers are small and white, measuring around 3-4mm in diameter. The plant has an upright growth habit and can reach a height of up to 2 meters (6.5 feet). The fruit is a small, dry capsule that contains a single seed.
Care Guide
To care for Phylica Strigulosa, it is important to provide it with the right conditions:- Water: Phylica Strigulosa prefers to be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). – Soil: Phylica Strigulosa prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. – Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. – Hardiness Zones: Phylica Strigulosa is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phylica Strigulosa is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and stunted growth. Treat with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. – Mealybugs: These pests can cause distorted growth and a sticky residue on the plant. Treat with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. – Root rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can lead to root rot. To prevent this, ensure that the soil is well-draining and allow the top layer to dry out before watering again.
Habitat
Phylica Strigulosa is native to South Africa and is commonly found in the fynbos biome. It grows in sandy, well-draining soils and is adapted to the Mediterranean climate of the region.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Phylica Strigulosa be grown indoors?
A: While Phylica Strigulosa can be grown indoors, it prefers full sun to partial shade and may not thrive in low-light conditions.
Q: How often should I water Phylica Strigulosa?
A: Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Phylica Strigulosa tolerate frost?
A: No, Phylica Strigulosa is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Q: How often should I fertilize Phylica Strigulosa?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).
Related Plants
Other plants in the genus Phylica include:- Phylica Arborea- Phylica Ericoides- Phylica Pubescens- Phylica Plumosa
References
– “Phylica Strigulosa.” PlantZAfrica.com. Accessed 1 June 2021. https://pza.sanbi.org/phylica-strigulosa.- “Phylica Strigulosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 1 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286937.
