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Description
Stillingia Aquatica is a perennial wildflower that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is commonly known as water stillingia, and it is indigenous to the southeastern United States. The plant typically grows between 2-4 feet tall and wide, and it has a shrub-like appearance with an upright stem and lateral branches. The foliage of the Stillingia Aquatica is green and leathery, and the flowers are small and greenish-white, blooming in the late summer and early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Stillingia |
Appearance
Stillingia Aquatica is a medium-sized perennial plant that grows up to 4 feet tall and wide. The plant has an upright stem and lateral branches, with green and leathery foliage. The flowers are small and greenish-white, blooming in the late summer and early fall. The plant’s fruit is a capsule, containing small seeds that are dispersed by wind and water.
Care Guide
Stillingia Aquatica is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you take care of your water stillingia:
- Water: Stillingia Aquatica requires moderate watering, especially during the hot and dry summer months. Water the plant deeply once a week, or whenever the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can feed it with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: Stillingia Aquatica prefers well-draining soil, rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may affect its growth and flowering.
- Hardiness Zones: Stillingia Aquatica is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stillingia Aquatica is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by some common garden pests and diseases:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the plant, causing yellowing and stippling of the leaves. You can control them by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can cause root rot, which can lead to the death of the plant. To prevent it, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant.
Habitat
Stillingia Aquatica is native to the southeastern United States, where it grows in wetlands, swamps, and along riverbanks. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate periodic flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Stillingia Aquatica a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Stillingia Aquatica is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care, making it a good choice for beginners.
Q: Can I grow Stillingia Aquatica in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Stillingia Aquatica in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and has good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize Stillingia Aquatica?
A: You can fertilize Stillingia Aquatica once a month during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Stillingia Aquatica tolerate full shade?
A: Stillingia Aquatica prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may affect its growth and flowering.
Related Plants
- Stillingia sylvatica
- Stillingia texana
- Stillingia tenuis
References
- Baker, M. A. (2003). Wildflowers of Louisiana and Adjoining States. LSU Press.
- Gilman, E. F. (1999). Euphorbia stillingia. University of Florida IFAS Extension.
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Stillingia aquatica. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=STAQ2
