Contents
Description
Struthiola Tomentosa, also known as the “Cape Snow” or “Bergroos,” is a small, evergreen shrub that belongs to the family of Struthiolaceae. This plant is native to South Africa, particularly in the Western Cape region, and can grow up to 20-30 cm in height. It is known for its woolly leaves and white, fragrant flowers that bloom during the early summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Struthiolaceae |
| Genus | Struthiola |
Appearance
Struthiola Tomentosa has small, oval-shaped leaves that are covered in white or grayish woolly hairs. The leaves grow up to 2 cm long and 1 cm wide. The flowers are white or cream-colored, with a sweet fragrance and a yellow center. They are small, about 1 cm in diameter, and grow in clusters at the tips of the branches. The fruit is a small, dry capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Water
Struthiola Tomentosa prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate periods of drought. However, it is important to water the plant regularly during the growing season, especially during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization
This plant does not require frequent fertilization. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied once a year in the early spring.
Soil
Struthiola Tomentosa prefers well-drained, sandy soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. It can tolerate poor soil conditions, but will thrive in a soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight
This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is important to protect it from harsh afternoon sun, especially in hot and dry climates.
Hardiness Zones
Struthiola Tomentosa is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Struthiola Tomentosa is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained. It can also be affected by spider mites and whiteflies, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Struthiola Tomentosa is native to the Western Cape region in South Africa, where it grows in sandy or rocky soils in fynbos and renosterveld vegetation. It is adapted to a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Struthiola Tomentosa a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, this plant can tolerate periods of drought, but it should be watered regularly during the growing season.
Q: What is the best soil for Struthiola Tomentosa?
A: This plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. It can tolerate poor soil conditions, but will thrive in a soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Struthiola Tomentosa?
A: This plant is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained. It can also be affected by spider mites and whiteflies, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Struthiola Tomentosa?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Struthiola Argentea
- Struthiola Erecta
- Struthiola Incana
- Struthiola Linearis
References
- “Struthiola tomentosa.” PlantZAfrica.com. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 23 Jun. 2021.
- “Struthiola tomentosa.” The Plant List. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 23 Jun. 2021.
- “Struthiola tomentosa (Cape snow).” Gardenia.net. Notabilis Ltd., n.d. Web. 23 Jun. 2021.
