Contents
Description
Aspalathus Setacea, also known as Cape Mountain Tea, is a flowering shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is native to South Africa and is commonly found in the Western Cape region. Aspalathus Setacea is a small, evergreen shrub that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. The plant has needle-like leaves that grow in clusters and produces small, yellow flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Aspalathus |
Appearance
Aspalathus Setacea is a small, evergreen shrub that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. The plant has needle-like leaves that grow in clusters and produces small, yellow flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers are followed by small, brown seed pods that contain the plant’s seeds. Aspalathus Setacea has a woody stem that is covered in a rough, brown bark.
Care Guide
Aspalathus Setacea is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:Water: Aspalathus Setacea is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.Fertilization: Aspalathus Setacea does not require fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.Soil: Aspalathus Setacea prefers well-draining, sandy soil. The plant can also grow in poor soil conditions.Sunlight: Aspalathus Setacea prefers full sunlight but can also grow in partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Aspalathus Setacea can grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aspalathus Setacea is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, the plant may be affected by spider mites and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Aspalathus Setacea is also susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained.
Habitat
Aspalathus Setacea is native to the Western Cape region of South Africa. The plant grows in well-draining sandy soil and is commonly found in mountainous areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Aspalathus Setacea grow in containers?
A: Yes, Aspalathus Setacea can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-draining.Q: How often should I fertilize Aspalathus Setacea?
A: Aspalathus Setacea does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.Q: Is Aspalathus Setacea drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Aspalathus Setacea is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Aspalathus Setacea?
A: Aspalathus Setacea can grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 8-11.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Aspalathus Setacea:- Aspalathus linearis (Rooibos)- Aspalathus corymbosa (Bush Tea)- Aspalathus hispida (Bokkeveld Rooibos)
References
– “Aspalathus Setacea.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/aspsetace.htm.- “Aspalathus Setacea.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, apps.kew.org/wcsp/namedetail.do?name_id=319829.
