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Description
Stillingia Texana, also known as Texas silverleaf, is a perennial plant native to the southwestern United States. It belongs to the Euphorbia family and is known for its medicinal properties. The plant has a woody stem, grows up to 3 feet tall, and produces small greenish-white flowers in the summer. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in harsh conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Stillingia |
Appearance
The leaves of Stillingia Texana are 2-4 inches long, oval-shaped, and have a silvery-grey color. The plant produces small greenish-white flowers that bloom from June to August. The fruit is a three-parted capsule that contains 3 seeds. The stem of the plant is woody and has a reddish-brown color. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
Stillingia Texana is a hardy plant that requires minimum care. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive without frequent watering. However, it needs to be watered occasionally during dry spells.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilizer. However, it can benefit from a light application of compost in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate different types of soil. It can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stillingia Texana is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot, which can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and ensuring good drainage.
Habitat
Stillingia Texana is native to the southwestern United States, including Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. It grows in dry, rocky areas, and can be found in prairies, savannas, and woodlands. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in harsh conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Stillingia Texana poisonous?
A: Yes, Stillingia Texana is toxic if ingested. It contains a resinous sap that can cause skin irritation and blistering.
Q: Can Stillingia Texana be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Stillingia Texana has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties.
Q: Can Stillingia Texana be grown indoors?
A: No, Stillingia Texana is an outdoor plant and cannot be grown indoors.
Q: How long does it take for Stillingia Texana to bloom?
A: Stillingia Texana blooms from June to August.
Related Plants
- Stillingia sylvatica
- Stillingia aquatica
- Stillingia linearifolia
References
- “Stillingia Texana.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed June 20, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=STTE.
- “Stillingia Texana.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed June 20, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=STTE.
- “Stillingia Texana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 20, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280903.
