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Description
Armeria Alpina Bee’s Ruby, also known as Alpine Thrift, is a species of flowering plant in the family Plumbaginaceae. It is a small, evergreen perennial that is native to alpine regions of Europe. The plant produces small, pink, globe-shaped flowers that bloom in the late spring and early summer. The foliage consists of narrow, grass-like leaves that grow in clumps.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Plumbaginaceae |
| Genus | Armeria |
Appearance
Armeria Alpina Bee’s Ruby is a compact, mounding plant that typically grows to be 4-6 inches tall and wide. The plant produces small, pink, globe-shaped flowers that bloom in the late spring and early summer. The flowers are held above the foliage on thin, wiry stems. The foliage consists of narrow, grass-like leaves that are evergreen and have a deep green color. The leaves grow in dense clumps and form a neat, rounded shape.
Care Guide
Armeria Alpina Bee’s Ruby is a relatively easy plant to care for, making it a great choice for beginners. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Armeria Alpina Bee’s Ruby prefers well-draining soil and doesn’t like to be over-watered. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, but be careful not to let the soil dry out completely.- Fertilization: This plant doesn’t need a lot of fertilizer. You can feed it once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.- Soil: Armeria Alpina Bee’s Ruby prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can amend heavy clay soil with sand or perlite to improve drainage.- Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun but can also tolerate some light shade.- Hardiness Zones: Armeria Alpina Bee’s Ruby is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Armeria Alpina Bee’s Ruby is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, or powdery mildew. To control pests, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Armeria Alpina Bee’s Ruby is native to alpine regions of Europe and thrives in sunny, well-drained locations. It is often planted in rock gardens or used as a groundcover in dry, sunny areas. It is also sometimes grown in containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Armeria Alpina Bee’s Ruby tolerate drought?
A: While this plant prefers regular watering, it can tolerate some drought once established.
Q: How often should I fertilize Armeria Alpina Bee’s Ruby?
A: You can fertilize this plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Q: Is Armeria Alpina Bee’s Ruby deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is generally deer-resistant.
Q: Can I propagate Armeria Alpina Bee’s Ruby by division?
A: Yes, you can divide this plant in the spring or fall to create new plants.
Related Plants
– Armeria Maritima- Armeria Juniperifolia- Armeria Pseudarmeria
References
– “Armeria Alpina Bee’s Ruby.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b464.- “Armeria Alpina.” Plant Care Guide, www.plantcareguide.com/armeria-alpina/.- “Armeria Alpina Bee’s Ruby.” Plant Delights Nursery, www.plantdelights.com/products/armeria-alpina-bees-ruby.
