Contents
Description
Sarcopoterium is a small shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is also known as sweet-broom or sweet-cushion. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found in Israel, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon. Sarcopoterium is a popular plant for landscaping because of its small size and attractive appearance. It is also used in traditional medicine for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Sarcopoterium |
Appearance
Sarcopoterium is a small shrub that grows up to 30 cm in height and 50 cm in width. It has small, dark green leaves that are about 1 cm long and 0.5 cm wide. The leaves are arranged in a spiral pattern along the stems. The flowers of Sarcopoterium are pink to reddish and bloom in the spring and summer. The fruit of this plant is a small, dry achene that is about 2 mm long.
Care Guide
Sarcopoterium is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: Sarcopoterium prefers well-draining soil and does not require much water. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and once every two weeks during the dormant season.
- Fertilization: Sarcopoterium does not require fertilizer, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring if desired.
- Soil: Sarcopoterium prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate poor soil conditions but will grow best in fertile soil.
- Sunlight: Sarcopoterium prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not bloom as well.
- Hardiness Zones: Sarcopoterium is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sarcopoterium is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These small insects may infest the leaves and stems of Sarcopoterium. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use a miticide to control them.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can cause root rot in Sarcopoterium. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Sarcopoterium is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found in Israel, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon. It grows in rocky and sandy soils in open areas and on hillsides. This plant is adapted to hot, dry summers and mild winters.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sarcopoterium a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Sarcopoterium is a popular plant for landscaping because of its small size and attractive appearance.
Q: What is the best soil for Sarcopoterium?
A: Sarcopoterium prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate poor soil conditions but will grow best in fertile soil.
Q: Does Sarcopoterium require fertilizer?
A: Sarcopoterium does not require fertilizer, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring if desired.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for Sarcopoterium?
A: Sarcopoterium is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Related Plants
- Cotoneaster
- Hawthorn
- Mountain ash
- Serviceberry
References
- “Sarcopoterium.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 Apr. 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c163
- “Sarcopoterium.” The Plant List. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 Apr. 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/search?q=Sarcopoterium
- “Sarcopoterium.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed 20 Apr. 2021. http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=73286
