Contents
Description
Achyranthes Velutina, also known as the velvet chaff flower, is a species of flowering plant in the family Amaranthaceae. It is native to India and is commonly found in tropical regions. The plant is an annual herb that grows up to 60 cm in height. It has broad leaves that are ovate to elliptic in shape and measure up to 10 cm in length. The flowers are small and are arranged in dense spikes that are up to 15 cm long. The plant produces small, black seeds that are about 1 mm in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Achyranthes |
| Species | Achyranthes Velutina |
Appearance
Achyranthes Velutina is a small, bushy plant with broad, green leaves that have a velvety texture. The plant produces dense spikes of small, white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers give way to small, black seeds that are about 1 mm in diameter. The plant is an annual herb that grows up to 60 cm in height and spreads up to 30 cm in width. It is a fast-growing plant that can quickly fill out a garden bed or container.
Care Guide
Achyranthes Velutina is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. The plant should be watered regularly, but not over-watered, as it is susceptible to root rot. Fertilizer can be applied every few weeks during the growing season. The plant can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Achyranthes Velutina is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it is susceptible to root rot if over-watered. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and do not water excessively. If the plant does become infected with root rot, it can be treated by reducing watering and applying a fungicide.
Habitat
Achyranthes Velutina is native to India and is commonly found in tropical regions. It is a fast-growing plant that can quickly fill out a garden bed or container. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Achyranthes Velutina?
A: Achyranthes Velutina should be watered regularly, but not over-watered. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering.
Q: Can Achyranthes Velutina be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Achyranthes Velutina can be grown in containers. It is a fast-growing plant that can quickly fill out a container.
Q: Does Achyranthes Velutina attract bees?
A: Yes, Achyranthes Velutina attracts bees and other pollinators with its small, white or pink flowers.
Q: Is Achyranthes Velutina toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that Achyranthes Velutina is toxic to pets. However, it is always best to keep pets away from plants.
Related Plants
- Achyranthes Aspera
- Achyranthes Bidentata
- Achyranthes Calea
- Achyranthes Ignatii
- Achyranthes Japonica
References
- Flowers of India. (n.d.). Velvet Chaff Flower. Retrieved from https://www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Velvet%20Chaff%20Flower.html
- Gardening Know How. (n.d.). Information About Achyranthes. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/achyranthes/achyranthes-information.htm
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Achyranthes Velutina. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=288207
