Contents
Description
Tetragonia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Aizoaceae. It is also known as New Zealand spinach, although it is not related to true spinach. These plants are known for their succulent leaves and edible fruits. Tetragonia species are native to coastal areas of Australia, New Zealand, and South America.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Genus | Tetragonia |
Appearance
Tetragonia plants have thick, fleshy leaves that are often triangular or arrow-shaped. The leaves are green or slightly reddish in color and can be up to 10 cm long. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, with five petals that are white or yellow in color. The fruits are capsule-like and contain small, black seeds.
Care Guide
Tetragonia plants are easy to care for and can be grown in containers or in the ground. Here are some tips for caring for these plants:- Water: Tetragonia plants prefer well-draining soil that is kept evenly moist. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: These plants do not require heavy fertilization, but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.- Soil: Tetragonia plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of potting soil, sand, and perlite can provide good drainage.- Sunlight: These plants prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Tetragonia plants are hardy in USDA zones 9-11, but can be grown as annuals in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tetragonia plants are relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, they can be susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases in poorly-draining soil. Aphids and spider mites can also infest these plants. Regular monitoring and treatment with an insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent pest infestations.
Habitat
Tetragonia plants are native to coastal areas of Australia, New Zealand, and South America. They are often found growing in sandy or rocky soil near the ocean. These plants are adapted to salt spray and can tolerate salty soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Tetragonia plants edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and fruits of Tetragonia plants are edible and can be used in salads or cooked like spinach.Q: Can Tetragonia plants survive in cold climates?
A: Tetragonia plants are hardy in USDA zones 9-11, but can be grown as annuals in cooler climates.Q: How often should I water my Tetragonia plant?
A: Water Tetragonia plants when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Q: Do Tetragonia plants attract pests?
A: Tetragonia plants can be infested with aphids and spider mites, but regular monitoring and treatment with an insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent pest infestations.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the family Aizoaceae:- Mesembryanthemum crystallinum (common ice plant)- Carpobrotus edulis (edible sea fig)- Conicosia pugioniformis (dagger leaf)
References
– “Tetragonia.” PlantNet. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.plantnet.org/en/beditions/21-22-23-24-25-26-27-28-29-30/explorer/tree/Aizoaceae/Tetragonia/.- “Tetragonia tetragonoides.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287307.- “Tetragonia tetragonoides.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed August 23, 2021. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:361945-1.
