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Description
Acis autumnalis, also known as autumn snowflake, is a bulbous perennial plant belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family. It is native to the western Mediterranean region, including Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, and North Africa. This plant produces delicate white flowers with green tips that bloom in the autumn, hence its common name.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Acis |
Appearance
Acis autumnalis has narrow, grass-like leaves that are about 10-30 cm long and 2-5 mm wide. The flowers are bell-shaped and consist of six white tepals, each with a green stripe down the center. The flowers are about 1.5-2.5 cm long and are arranged in loose umbels of 2-6 flowers. The plant grows to a height of about 20-30 cm.
Care Guide
Water
Acis autumnalis prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering during the dormant period.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring before the growing season begins.
Soil
Acis autumnalis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral.
Sunlight
Acis autumnalis prefers full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.
Hardiness Zones
Acis autumnalis is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acis autumnalis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to bulb rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
Acis autumnalis grows in meadows, pastures, and rocky areas in its native range. It is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: When does Acis autumnalis bloom?
A: Acis autumnalis blooms in the autumn, usually from September to November.
Q: Can Acis autumnalis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Acis autumnalis can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and water regularly during the growing season.
Q: How often should I fertilize Acis autumnalis?
A: Fertilize Acis autumnalis once a year in the spring before the growing season begins.
Q: Is Acis autumnalis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Acis autumnalis is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep it away from pets and children.
Related Plants
- Acis tingitana
- Acis trichophylla
- Leucojum aestivum
- Galanthus nivalis
References
- “Acis autumnalis (L.) Sweet”, Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 23 August 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:527173-1
- “Autumn snowflake”, Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 23 August 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/10527/i-Acis-autumnalis-i/Details
- “Acis autumnalis”, Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 23 August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279011&isprofile=0&
