Smithia

Description

Smithia is a genus of flowering plants in the Fabaceae family, commonly known as pea or bean family. It consists of about 50 species of annual or perennial herbs, shrubs, or small trees that are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia. The most well-known species is Smithia conferta, which is cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers and foliage.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Smithia plants vary in size and form, but most have simple leaves that are alternate and stipulate. The flowers are usually yellow or orange, with a distinctive keel that encloses the reproductive organs. The fruit is a pod that splits open when ripe, revealing the seeds. The size and shape of the flowers and fruits can vary greatly between species.

Care Guide

Smithia plants prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter, and they should be watered regularly during the growing season. Fertilization can be done with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. They require full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but they are not cold-hardy and should be protected from frost. Smithia plants are suited to hardiness zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Smithia plants are susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, and powdery mildew. Preventative measures include keeping the plants healthy and well-watered, avoiding overhead watering, and applying insecticidal soap or neem oil when necessary. Fungal diseases can be treated with a copper-based fungicide.

Habitat

Smithia plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia, where they grow in a range of habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and forests. They are also cultivated as ornamental plants in gardens and parks in warmer climates.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Smithia plants be grown indoors?
A: While Smithia plants can be grown in containers, they prefer full sun and may not thrive indoors unless given adequate light.

Q: How often should Smithia plants be fertilized?
A: Smithia plants should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Smithia plants?
A: Smithia plants are suited to hardiness zones 9-11.

Q: How can I control powdery mildew on my Smithia plants?
A: Powdery mildew can be controlled by keeping the plants healthy and well-watered, avoiding overhead watering, and applying fungicide when necessary.

Related Plants

• Crotalaria
• Indigofera
• Lathyrus
• Pisum
• Vigna

References

• “Smithia.” The Plant List. Accessed 10 August 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Leguminosae/Smithia/
• Wijesundara, D. S. A. “Smithia conferta.” Flowers of India. Accessed 10 August 2021. https://www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Conferta%20Smithia.html
• “Smithia.” Flora of Zimbabwe. Accessed 10 August 2021. http://www.zimbabweflora.co.zw/speciesdata/genus.php?genus_id=887