Contents
Description
Selliera Rotundifolia, also known as round-leaved selliera or swampweed, is a low-growing flowering plant that is native to New Zealand. This perennial herb belongs to the Goodeniaceae family and is often used as a ground cover or ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. Its small, rounded leaves and delicate blue flowers make it an attractive addition to any space.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Goodeniaceae |
| Genus | Selliera |
Appearance
Selliera Rotundifolia typically grows to a height of 5-10 cm and spreads outwards to form a mat-like ground cover. Its small, rounded leaves are a shiny green color and measure about 1-2 cm in diameter. The plant produces delicate blue flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter and bloom from spring to autumn. The flowers are pollinated by bees and other insects, and the plant is known to attract butterflies as well.
Care Guide
Selliera Rotundifolia is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to ensure that your plant thrives:
- Water: This plant prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: You can fertilize Selliera Rotundifolia with a general-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of potting soil and perlite or sand works well.
- Sunlight: Selliera Rotundifolia prefers partial shade to full sun. In hotter climates, it may benefit from some shade during the hottest part of the day.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Selliera Rotundifolia is generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, here are a few issues to watch out for:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of Selliera Rotundifolia. You can control them by picking them off by hand, using a slug trap, or using a commercial slug bait.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to Selliera Rotundifolia. Make sure to plant it in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Selliera Rotundifolia is native to wetlands and salt marshes in New Zealand. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. This plant is adaptable and can grow in a variety of conditions, including sandy soil and coastal areas. It is often used as a ground cover or ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Selliera Rotundifolia be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Selliera Rotundifolia can be grown in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and is watered regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize Selliera Rotundifolia?
A: You can fertilize Selliera Rotundifolia once a month during the growing season.
Q: Does Selliera Rotundifolia attract butterflies?
A: Yes, Selliera Rotundifolia is known to attract butterflies.
Q: Is Selliera Rotundifolia invasive?
A: No, Selliera Rotundifolia is not considered invasive in most areas.
Related Plants
- Selliera Radicans
- Scaevola Aemula
- Goodenia Ovata
- Brachyscome Iberidifolia
References
- “Selliera Rotundifolia.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/selliera-rotundifolia/
- “Selliera Rotundifolia.” Australian Native Plants Society. https://anpsa.org.au/sel-rot.html
- “Selliera Rotundifolia.” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/groundcover/selliera/swampweed-plant-care.htm
