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Description
Stellaria Pungens, commonly known as the prairie star, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is native to North America and is mostly found in the central and western parts of the continent. This plant is often used as a decorative plant in gardens and is also used for medicinal purposes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Stellaria |
Appearance
Stellaria Pungens has a clump-forming growth habit and can grow up to 12 inches in height. Its leaves are lance-shaped and have a greyish-green color. The plant produces small, white, star-shaped flowers that bloom from spring to summer. These flowers have five petals and are about 1/4 inch in diameter. The plant’s root system is shallow, and it spreads through rhizomes, making it an excellent ground cover.
Care Guide
Water: Stellaria Pungens prefers moist soil and requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather.Fertilization: The plant does not need regular fertilization, but it will benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring.Soil: Stellaria Pungens grows well in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun, but it can tolerate full shade.Hardiness Zones: Stellaria Pungens is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stellaria Pungens is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and root rot if grown in poorly drained soil. Common pests that can infest this plant include aphids, spider mites, and slugs.
Habitat
Stellaria Pungens is native to North America and is commonly found in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. It prefers moist soils and can tolerate a wide range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Stellaria Pungens poisonous to humans or animals?
A: No, Stellaria Pungens is not poisonous to humans or animals.Q: Can Stellaria Pungens be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors in a container with well-drained soil and bright, indirect light.Q: How often should Stellaria Pungens be fertilized?
A: Stellaria Pungens does not need regular fertilization, but a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring can be beneficial.Q: How do I propagate Stellaria Pungens?
A: Stellaria Pungens can be propagated by division or by planting stem cuttings.
Related Plants
- Stellaria media
- Stellaria holostea
- Stellaria alsine
- Stellaria borealis
References
- “Stellaria Pungens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 3, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f450.
- “Stellaria Pungens.” Wildflower Center. Accessed August 3, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=STPU.
- “Stellaria Pungens – Prairie Star.” Plant Database. Accessed August 3, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Stellaria+pungens.
