Contents
Description
Stellera Chamaejasme, commonly known as the dwarf alpine spiraea or the Chinese burnet, is a small shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas, China, and Mongolia. The plant has a woody stem that grows up to 30 cm in height, and it produces rounded leaves that are dark green in color. The leaves are arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem, and they have a serrated margin.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Stellera |
Appearance
The Stellera Chamaejasme plant produces small, white flowers that bloom in early summer. The flowers are arranged in a dense, circular shape at the top of the stem. The plant also produces small, round fruits that are dark red in color. The fruits are edible but are not commonly consumed by humans. The plant has a pleasant, spicy fragrance, and it is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens.
Care Guide
Stellera Chamaejasme is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: The plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in early spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stellera Chamaejasme is generally a healthy plant that is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These are small insects that feed on the plant’s sap, causing the leaves to curl and distort. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Spider mites: These are tiny insects that spin webs on the plant and suck its juices. Use insecticidal soap to control spider mites.
- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating to appear on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control powdery mildew.
Habitat
Stellera Chamaejasme is native to the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas, China, and Mongolia. It grows in rocky, alpine terrain and can tolerate extreme temperatures and harsh weather conditions. The plant is often found in mountain meadows and along stream banks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Stellera Chamaejasme a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Stellera Chamaejasme has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, inflammation, and respiratory infections.
Q: Can Stellera Chamaejasme be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Stellera Chamaejasme can be grown in containers as long as they are deep enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I prune Stellera Chamaejasme?
A: Prune Stellera Chamaejasme once a year in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and promote new growth.
Q: Can Stellera Chamaejasme be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Stellera Chamaejasme can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in early summer.
Related Plants
- Stellera Falcata
- Stellera Chrysantha
- Stellera Fimbriata
- Stellera Nivea
References
- “Stellera chamaejasme (L.) Crantz.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, accessed 3 Aug. 2021, http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30003650-2.
- “Stellera Chamaejasme.” Royal Horticultural Society, accessed 3 Aug. 2021, https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/348659/Stellera-chamaejasme/Details.
- “Stellera Chamaejasme: Chinese Burnet.” High Country Gardens, accessed 3 Aug. 2021, https://www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/stellera/stellera-chamaejasme.
