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Description
Psoralea Pinnata, also known as the Blue Psoralea, is a perennial legume shrub that is native to South Africa. It can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and produces blue flowers that bloom from late winter to early spring. The plant has a woody base and is known to have a sweet scent.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukarya||————|————|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Magnoliophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Fabales|| Family| Fabaceae|| Genus| Psoralea|| Species| Pinnata|
Appearance
Psoralea Pinnata is a shrub that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. It has a woody base with branches that spread outwards. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet being ovate to elliptic in shape and measuring up to 2.5 cm long and 1.5 cm wide. The flowers are blue and bloom from late winter to early spring. The fruit is a small pod that contains one to two seeds.
Care Guide
Psoralea Pinnata requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some care tips:Water: Psoralea Pinnata requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during its growing season.Soil: Psoralea Pinnata prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The soil should be rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Psoralea Pinnata requires full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not bloom as well.Hardiness Zones: Psoralea Pinnata can grow in hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Psoralea Pinnata is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including spider mites, mealybugs, and root rot. Spider mites and mealybugs can be controlled with insecticidal soap, while root rot can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Psoralea Pinnata is native to South Africa and is commonly found in sandy and rocky areas. It is also grown in gardens as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Psoralea Pinnata a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, Psoralea Pinnata can tolerate drought to some extent.Q: How often should I fertilize Psoralea Pinnata?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during its growing season.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Psoralea Pinnata?
A: Psoralea Pinnata can grow in hardiness zones 8-11.Q: What is the best soil type for Psoralea Pinnata?
A: Psoralea Pinnata prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and rich in organic matter.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Psoralea Pinnata:- Psoralea Cataracta- Psoralea Decumbens- Psoralea Gueinzii- Psoralea Lactea- Psoralea Marginalis
References
– “Psoralea pinnata.” PlantZAfrica. – “Blue Psoralea.” Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. – “Psoralea pinnata.” PlantNET.
