Contents
Description
Pimelea Octophylla is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Thymelaeaceae family. It is also known as Rice Flower due to the similarity of its inflorescence to a grain of rice. This plant is native to Australia and is commonly found in the states of New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia. It grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has a spread of 1 meter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsid |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Thymelaeaceae |
| Genus | Pimelea |
| Species | Octophylla |
Appearance
Pimelea Octophylla has lance-shaped leaves that are around 7 centimeters long and 1 centimeter wide. The leaves are green on the upper surface and whitish on the lower surface. The flowers are small and white, with a diameter of around 1 centimeter. They are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches and bloom from May to October. The fruit of this plant is a capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Pimelea Octophylla prefers well-draining soil and requires moderate watering. It is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in spring with a slow-release fertilizer.Soil: Pimelea Octophylla grows best in sandy or loamy soil that is slightly acidic.Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade and can tolerate full sun but will require more water.Hardiness Zones: Pimelea Octophylla is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pimelea Octophylla is susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Other than that, this plant is relatively pest and disease-free.
Habitat
Pimelea Octophylla is native to Australia and is commonly found in dry sclerophyll forests and heathlands. It is also found in coastal areas and on sand dunes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pimelea Octophylla a drought-tolerant plant?
A: No, it prefers moderate watering and is not drought-tolerant.Q: Can Pimelea Octophylla grow in full sun?
A: Yes, it can tolerate full sun but will require more water.Q: Does Pimelea Octophylla attract bees?
A: Yes, the small white flowers of Pimelea Octophylla attract bees.Q: Is Pimelea Octophylla toxic to pets?
A: There is no information available on the toxicity of Pimelea Octophylla to pets.
Related Plants
- Pimelea Ferruginea
- Pimelea Glauca
- Pimelea Linifolia
- Pimelea Prostrata
References
- https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/interns-2017/pimelea-octophylla.html
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/rice-flower/rice-flower-care.htm
- https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/rice-flower/9429010
