Contents
Description
Struthiola Myrsinites, commonly known as Sweet Broom or Dwarf Struthiola, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Struthiolaceae family. It is native to South Africa and can be found growing in the wild on rocky slopes and sandy flats. The plant is a small, evergreen shrub that typically grows up to 30cm in height and spreads up to 60cm in width.
Taxonomy
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Struthiolaceae |
| Genus | Struthiola |
Appearance
The Sweet Broom plant has small, narrow leaves that are about 1-2cm long and 1mm wide. The leaves are green and slightly curved, and they are arranged opposite each other on the stem. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. The flowers are about 1cm in diameter and have five petals. The plant’s fruit is a small, dry capsule that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Water
The Sweet Broom plant prefers well-draining soil, and it should be watered regularly during the growing season. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as it is susceptible to root rot.
Fertilization
The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. It is important not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced flowering.
Soil
The Sweet Broom plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it should not be planted in heavy clay soil.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It should be planted in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
The Sweet Broom plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sweet Broom plant is relatively pest-resistant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and scale insects. It is also susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
The Sweet Broom plant is native to South Africa and can be found growing in the wild on rocky slopes and sandy flats. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Sweet Broom plant deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is considered deer-resistant.
Q: Can the Sweet Broom plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it should be planted in well-draining soil and watered regularly.
Q: Does the Sweet Broom plant require pruning?
A: The plant does not require pruning, but it can be pruned after flowering to maintain its shape.
Q: How often should the Sweet Broom plant be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Struthiola Ciliata
- Struthiola Erecta
- Struthiola Juniperina
References
- “Struthiola Myrsinites.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277266&isprofile=0.
- “Struthiola Myrsinites.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/struthmyrs.htm.
- “Sweet Broom (Struthiola Myrsinites).” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/struthiola-myrsinites-sweet-broom.
