Stellera

Description

Stellera is a genus of flowering plants in the family Thymelaeaceae. It includes two species, Stellera chamaejasme and Stellera falcata. These plants are native to Central Asia and Europe, and they are known for their unique and beautiful appearance.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Stellera plants are small and bushy with a height of about 30 cm. They have narrow leaves that are up to 10 cm long and 5 mm wide. The leaves are covered in fine hairs and are arranged in a rosette around the base of the stem. The flowers of Stellera are small, bell-shaped, and greenish-yellow in color. They appear in dense clusters at the top of the stem and bloom from May to July.

Care Guide

Stellera plants require well-drained soil and full sun to grow. They are drought-tolerant and can survive in a range of hardiness zones from 3 to 7. These plants do not require much fertilization, but they benefit from a light application of organic fertilizer in the spring. Watering should be done sparingly, as Stellera plants do not like to be overwatered.

Common Pests & Diseases

Stellera plants are not prone to many pests or diseases. However, they can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plant clean and well-ventilated. If pests or diseases are present, they can be treated with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Habitat

Stellera plants are native to Central Asia and Europe, where they grow in rocky and mountainous areas. They can be found in alpine meadows, on rocky slopes, and in open forests.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Stellera plants be grown indoors?

A: No, Stellera plants require full sun and well-drained soil, which are difficult to replicate indoors.

Q: Are Stellera plants toxic?

A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic and can cause skin irritation and digestive issues if ingested.

Q: How often should Stellera plants be fertilized?

A: Stellera plants do not require much fertilization, but a light application of organic fertilizer in the spring can be beneficial.

Q: Can Stellera plants tolerate frost?

A: Yes, Stellera plants are hardy and can survive in a range of hardiness zones from 3 to 7.

Related Plants

• Thymelaea
• Daphne
• Dirca
• Pimelea

References

• Stevens, P. F. (2001 onwards). Angiosperm Phylogeny Website. Version 14, July 2017 [and more or less continuously updated since].
• Stellera. (n.d.). In Flora of China. Retrieved October 28, 2021, from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=130626
• Stellera chamaejasme. (n.d.). In Plants for a Future. Retrieved October 28, 2021, from https://pfaf.org/user/plant.aspx?latinname=Stellera+chamaejasme