Contents
Description
Spergula Pentandra, commonly known as the Big Sand-spurry or Corn Spurry, is a flowering plant species belonging to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is a herbaceous annual plant that is native to Europe and Asia. It is found in various habitats including agricultural fields, waste lands, gardens, and pastures. The plant grows up to a height of 20-60 cm and its stem is erect, branching at the base. The leaves are narrow and linear, with a length of 1-3 cm and a width of 1-2 mm. The flowers are white or pink in color, with five petals and ten stamens. The fruit is a capsule containing numerous small seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Spergula |
| Species | Spergula Pentandra |
Appearance
Spergula Pentandra has a slender stem that is light green in color. Its leaves are narrow and linear, with a smooth texture and a dark green color. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The flowers have five petals and ten stamens. The fruit is a capsule that contains numerous small seeds. The plant blooms from June to August, and its seeds mature in August or September.
Care Guide
Spergula Pentandra is an easy-to-grow plant that does not require much care. It can be grown in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant prefers full sun and moderate watering. It is tolerant of drought conditions and can survive in hardiness zones 3-9. The plant does not require fertilization, but it can benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Common Pests & Diseases
Spergula Pentandra is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it may be affected by powdery mildew, which can cause a white powdery layer on the leaves. The plant may also be affected by leaf spot, which can cause brown spots on the leaves. To prevent these diseases, it is important to provide good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Spergula Pentandra is native to Europe and Asia, but it has been introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant. It can be found in various habitats including agricultural fields, waste lands, gardens, and pastures. It prefers dry and sandy soils, and can tolerate drought conditions. The plant is often used as a ground cover or as an ornamental plant in rock gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Spergula Pentandra be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Spergula Pentandra can be grown in containers. It requires well-draining soil and full sun.
Q: How often should Spergula Pentandra be watered?
A: Spergula Pentandra prefers moderate watering. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: What is the best time to plant Spergula Pentandra?
A: Spergula Pentandra can be planted in the spring after the last frost or in the fall before the first frost.
Q: Is Spergula Pentandra a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Spergula Pentandra is a good plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Spergula Arvensis
- Spergula Morisonii
- Spergula Lepidocarpa
- Spergula Fallax
References
- “Spergula pentandra.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 23 March 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281705&isprofile=0&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&;.
- “Spergula pentandra.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 23 March 2021. <http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:157530-1.
- “Corn Spurry.” Gardening Know How. Accessed 23 March 2021. <https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/weeds/corn-spurry-control.htm.
