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Description
Tephrosia Candida, also known as the white tephrosia, is a perennial legume that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is native to the southern United States, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota||————-|————-|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Tracheophyta|| Class| Magnoliopsida|| Order| Fabales|| Family| Fabaceae|| Genus| Tephrosia|| Species| Candida|
Appearance
Tephrosia Candida grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Its leaves are pinnate, with 9-17 leaflets that are oval to lanceolate in shape. The plant produces clusters of white, pea-like flowers that bloom from spring to fall. The flowers are followed by flat, brown seed pods that contain several seeds.
Care Guide
Tephrosia Candida is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for its care:- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.- Soil: The plant grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Tephrosia Candida prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tephrosia Candida is susceptible to root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure good air circulation. The plant may also attract spider mites and whiteflies. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.
Habitat
Tephrosia Candida is commonly found in open woods, fields, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Tephrosia Candida toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant contains toxic compounds that can be harmful to pets if ingested.
Q: How often should I fertilize Tephrosia Candida?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Q: Can Tephrosia Candida grow in shade?
A: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: When does Tephrosia Candida bloom?
A: The plant produces clusters of white, pea-like flowers that bloom from spring to fall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Tephrosia Candida:- Tephrosia Virginiana- Tephrosia Apollinea- Tephrosia Purpurea- Tephrosia Vogelii
References
– “Tephrosia Candida.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 18 May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b870.- “Tephrosia Candida.” University of Florida. Accessed 18 May 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FP/FP35400.pdf.
