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Description
Armeria Maritima Subsp. Maritima, also known as Sea Thrift or Sea Pink, is a species of flowering plant in the family Plumbaginaceae. It is a perennial herb that grows in dense clumps, with a compact, spherical shape. It is native to coastal regions of Europe and North America, where it grows in rocky and sandy habitats, often in salt spray zones.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Plumbaginaceae |
| Genus | Armeria |
Appearance
Armeria Maritima Subsp. Maritima has narrow, grass-like leaves that form a basal rosette. Its flowers are small and pink, and are borne on tall, slender stems that rise above the foliage. The flowers bloom in late spring and early summer, and are attractive to bees and butterflies. The plant grows to a height of 10-15 cm, with a spread of 20-30 cm.
Care Guide
Water: Armeria Maritima Subsp. Maritima prefers well-drained soil, and does not tolerate wet or soggy conditions. It should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.Fertilization: Armeria Maritima Subsp. Maritima does not require regular fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring can help promote growth and blooming.Soil: Armeria Maritima Subsp. Maritima prefers a sandy or rocky soil that is well-drained and slightly alkaline. It does not tolerate heavy clay soils or soils that are too acidic.Sunlight: Armeria Maritima Subsp. Maritima prefers full sunlight, and will not bloom well in shade. It can tolerate some light shade, but should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Armeria Maritima Subsp. Maritima is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Armeria Maritima Subsp. Maritima is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-drained soil. It can also be affected by powdery mildew, particularly in humid conditions. Regular monitoring and proper care can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Armeria Maritima Subsp. Maritima is native to coastal regions of Europe and North America, where it grows in rocky and sandy habitats, often in salt spray zones. It is commonly found on cliffs, rocky shores, and dunes, and is well-adapted to tolerate strong winds and harsh coastal conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Armeria Maritima Subsp. Maritima deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Armeria Maritima Subsp. Maritima is generally deer-resistant, as its foliage has a bitter taste that deer find unpalatable.
Q: Can Armeria Maritima Subsp. Maritima be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Armeria Maritima Subsp. Maritima can be grown in containers, provided that the container has good drainage and the plant is not overwatered.
Q: How often should Armeria Maritima Subsp. Maritima be fertilized?
A: Armeria Maritima Subsp. Maritima does not require regular fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring can help promote growth and blooming.
Q: How often should Armeria Maritima Subsp. Maritima be watered?
A: Armeria Maritima Subsp. Maritima should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. The frequency of watering will depend on the climate and the soil type.
Related Plants
- Armeria Maritima Subsp. Californica
- Armeria Maritima Subsp. Laucheana
- Armeria Maritima Subsp. Sibirica
References
- “Armeria Maritima.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k790.
- “Armeria Maritima subsp. maritima.” Flora of North America, www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=250060075.
- “How to Grow and Care for Armeria (Thrift or Sea Pink).” Gardener’s Path, 27 Feb. 2020, gardenerspath.com/plants/perennials/grow-armeria/.
