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Description
Acanthospermum Australe, commonly known as Southern Starbur or Spiny Broomweed, is a flowering plant native to South America but can be found in other parts of the world such as Africa and the Caribbean. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is an herbaceous perennial that can grow up to 1 meter tall. The plant has a distinctive spiny stem and leaves and produces small, yellow flowers that bloom from summer to fall. Its fruit is a hard nutlet covered in spines that stick to clothing and animal fur.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Acanthospermum |
Appearance
Acanthospermum Australe has a distinctive spiny stem and leaves that are green and covered in fine hairs. The leaves are alternate, simple, and lanceolate in shape, with toothed margins. The plant produces small, bright yellow flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter and have five petals. The flowers bloom from summer to fall and are followed by hard nutlets that are covered in spines. The plant can grow up to 1 meter tall and has a bushy habit.
Care Guide
Acanthospermum Australe is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for growing this plant:Water: Water the plant occasionally, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.Sunlight: Acanthospermum Australe thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acanthospermum Australe is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Acanthospermum Australe is native to South America, where it grows in open areas, pastures, and disturbed areas. It can also be found in other parts of the world such as Africa and the Caribbean. The plant is adaptable and can grow in a variety of soil types and climatic conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Acanthospermum Australe a medicinal plant?A: Yes, Acanthospermum Australe has been used in traditional medicine to treat several ailments such as dysentery, fever, and inflammation.Q: Is Acanthospermum Australe invasive?A: Yes, Acanthospermum Australe can be invasive in some areas due to its ability to spread rapidly.Q: Can Acanthospermum Australe be grown in containers?A: Yes, Acanthospermum Australe can be grown in containers, but it will need a large pot to accommodate its root system.Q: How often should I prune Acanthospermum Australe?A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to promote bushiness.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Acanthospermum Australe:
- Acanthospermum Hispidum
- Acanthospermum Xanthioides
- Acanthospermum Glabratum
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Acanthospermum australe. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c728- PlantZAfrica.com. (n.d.). Acanthospermum australe. Retrieved from http://pza.sanbi.org/acanthospermum-australe
