Contents
Description
Phyllanthus Polygonoides, also known as the creeping spurge, is a low-growing herbaceous plant that belongs to the Phyllanthaceae family. It is native to North America, specifically in the eastern and central regions of the United States. The plant is characterized by its thin, creeping stems that can grow up to 12 inches long. It produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and fall seasons.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Phyllanthaceae |
| Genus | Phyllanthus |
Appearance
The leaves of Phyllanthus Polygonoides are small and oval-shaped, measuring only about 1/4 inch long. They are arranged alternately along the stem and have a light green color. The stems are thin and can grow up to 12 inches long, making it a great ground cover plant. The flowers of the plant are produced in small clusters and have a greenish-yellow color. They bloom in the summer and fall seasons.
Care Guide
Phyllanthus Polygonoides is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to properly care for this plant:- Water: The plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. Fertilize it once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phyllanthus Polygonoides is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can still be affected by some common issues such as:- Mealybugs: These pests can infest the plant and cause it to wilt. Use insecticidal soap to treat the infestation.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause white powdery spots on the leaves. Use fungicides to treat the disease.
Habitat
Phyllanthus Polygonoides is native to North America, specifically in the eastern and central regions of the United States. It can be found growing in a variety of habitats such as woodlands, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant is adapted to a wide range of soil types and can tolerate moderate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phyllanthus Polygonoides a good ground cover plant?
A: Yes, Phyllanthus Polygonoides is a great ground cover plant due to its thin, creeping stems that can grow up to 12 inches long.
Q: Can Phyllanthus Polygonoides grow in full sun exposure?
A: Yes, Phyllanthus Polygonoides can grow in full sun exposure, but it prefers partial shade.
Q: Does Phyllanthus Polygonoides require frequent fertilization?
A: No, Phyllanthus Polygonoides does not require frequent fertilization. Fertilize it once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone of Phyllanthus Polygonoides?
A: Phyllanthus Polygonoides is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Related Plants
– Phyllanthus Amarus- Phyllanthus Emblica- Phyllanthus Fluitans- Phyllanthus Fraternus
References
– “Creeping Spurge.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 29 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c440.- “Phyllanthus Polygonoides.” Natural Resources Conservation Service. Accessed 29 June 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=PHPO3.
