Contents
Description
Aspalathus Aciphylla is a shrub species of the Fabaceae family that is endemic to South Africa’s Western Cape. This plant is commonly known as the “rooibos tea” plant, which is a popular beverage in South Africa due to its numerous health benefits. The shrub grows up to 2 meters tall and has needle-like leaves that are 20-40 mm long. The plant’s flowers are small, yellow, and fragrant, and they bloom from late winter to early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Aspalathus |
| Species | Aciphylla |
Appearance
Aspalathus Aciphylla has a unique appearance, characterized by needle-like leaves that are green in color and 20-40 mm long. The plant’s flowers are small, yellow, and fragrant, and they bloom from late winter to early spring. The shrub can grow up to 2 meters tall and has a woody stem that is covered with bark. The plant’s root system is deep, making it able to survive in dry and harsh conditions.
Care Guide
Aspalathus Aciphylla is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
Water: The plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during its growing season.
Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can add organic matter to the soil to improve its structure and fertility.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Ensure that the plant receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. Ensure that you plant the shrub in a suitable hardiness zone to avoid damage to the plant.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aspalathus Aciphylla is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can suffer from root rot if it is planted in poorly-draining soil. Ensure that the plant is planted in well-draining soil to avoid root rot. Additionally, the shrub can be attacked by spider mites, which can be controlled by spraying the plant with neem oil.
Habitat
Aspalathus Aciphylla is endemic to South Africa’s Western Cape and is commonly found in the Fynbos biome. The plant prefers sandy or rocky soil and is commonly found growing in mountainous areas. The shrub is adapted to survive in dry and harsh conditions, making it a perfect plant for xeriscaping.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Aspalathus Aciphylla a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Aspalathus Aciphylla is used to make rooibos tea, which has numerous health benefits, including reducing blood pressure and aiding digestion.
Q: Can Aspalathus Aciphylla be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the shrub can be grown in a container as long as it is planted in well-draining soil and receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should I prune Aspalathus Aciphylla?
A: Prune the shrub once a year to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth. You can prune the shrub after it has finished blooming.
Q: How long does it take for Aspalathus Aciphylla to bloom?
A: The shrub blooms from late winter to early spring, and the flowers can last up to several weeks.
Related Plants
- Aspalathus linearis
- Aspalathus ciliaris
- Aspalathus hispida
- Aspalathus capensis
References
- South African National Biodiversity Institute. (2021). Aspalathus aciphylla. PlantZAfrica. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/aspalaciphy.htm
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Aspalathus aciphylla. Tropicos. https://www.tropicos.org/name/13003858
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (2021). Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis). EDIS. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ag411
