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Description
Thesium Strictum, also known as upright toadflax, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Santalaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in dry, sandy habitats such as heathlands and grasslands. Thesium Strictum can grow up to 50 cm tall and has a slender stem with small greenish-white flowers. The plant blooms from June to August and produces small, round fruits that turn brown when ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Santalales |
| Family | Santalaceae |
| Genus | Thesium |
Appearance
Thesium Strictum has a slender stem with narrow leaves that are 1-3 cm long and 2-5 mm wide. The leaves are pointed and grow in opposite pairs along the stem. The plant produces small greenish-white flowers that are arranged in dense, spike-like clusters. The flowers have four petals and are approximately 3-4 mm in diameter. The plant blooms from June to August and produces small, round fruits that turn brown when ripe.
Care Guide
Thesium Strictum prefers dry, sandy soil and full sun exposure. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°C. When planting, make sure to space the plants at least 30 cm apart to allow for proper growth. Water the plant regularly during its first year of growth, but after that, it can survive on natural rainfall. Fertilization is not necessary, but if desired, use a balanced fertilizer in the spring. Thesium Strictum prefers well-draining soil and can benefit from a layer of mulch to help retain moisture.
Common Pests & Diseases
Thesium Strictum is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by aphids or spider mites, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Thesium Strictum is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in dry, sandy habitats such as heathlands and grasslands. It can also be found in rocky areas and on cliffs.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Thesium Strictum a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Thesium Strictum is a hardy plant that can survive in a variety of conditions and requires minimal care.
Q: Can Thesium Strictum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Thesium Strictum can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining.
Q: Does Thesium Strictum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Thesium Strictum is pollinated by bees and other insects.
Q: Can Thesium Strictum be propagated by seeds?
A: Yes, Thesium Strictum can be propagated by seeds, which should be sown in the fall.
Related Plants
- Thesium Alpine
- Thesium Bavarum
- Thesium Chinense
- Thesium Ebracteatum
References
- “Thesium Strictum.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science, n.d. Web. 13 Sept. 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:836414-1.
- “Thesium Strictum (Upright Toadflax).” Gardenia. Gardenia.net, n.d. Web. 13 Sept. 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/Thesium-Strictum-Upright-Toadflax.
- “Thesium Strictum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 13 Sept. 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c570.
