Contents
1. Description
Adesmia Salicornioides, commonly known as “Pickleweed” or “Salty Dog,” is a shrubby plant species that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to South America, particularly found in Argentina, Chile, and Peru. The plant has a unique appearance and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its salt tolerance and drought resistance.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Adesmia |
3. Appearance
Adesmia Salicornioides is a small, evergreen, and bushy shrub that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The plant has thin, flexible, and cylindrical stems with small green leaves that are approximately 2-3 cm long. The leaves are narrow, pointed, and covered with tiny hairs that give the plant a soft texture. The flowers are small, yellow, and bloom in clusters during the summer season. The plant’s unique feature is its salt-excreting glands that are visible on the stem and leaves, giving it an appearance of a pickleweed.
4. Care Guide
Adesmia Salicornioides is a low maintenance plant and is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions. Water the plant moderately, and avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.- Fertilization: Adesmia Salicornioides doesn’t require much fertilizer. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: The plant thrives in well-draining soil, and adding sand or perlite can help improve drainage.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Adesmia Salicornioides is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
Adesmia Salicornioides is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil, if necessary.
6. Habitat
Adesmia Salicornioides is native to South America, particularly found in Argentina, Chile, and Peru. It is commonly found in coastal areas, salt marshes, and sandy soils.
7. Question and Answer
Q: Is Adesmia Salicornioides suitable for indoor growing?
A: Adesmia Salicornioides prefers full sun and is best grown outdoors. However, it can be grown indoors in a sunny and well-ventilated area.
Q: Can Adesmia Salicornioides survive in salty soil?
A: Yes, Adesmia Salicornioides is salt-tolerant and can survive in salty soil conditions.
Q: When is the best time to prune Adesmia Salicornioides?
A: Prune Adesmia Salicornioides in the late winter or early spring before the new growth appears.
Q: Can Adesmia Salicornioides be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Adesmia Salicornioides can be propagated from stem cuttings taken during the spring or summer season.
8. Related Plants
– Adesmia Atacamensis- Adesmia Boronioides- Adesmia Microphylla- Adesmia Incana- Adesmia Trijuga
9. References
– “Adesmia Salicornioides.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 23 August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c394.- “Adesmia Salicornioides.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed 23 August 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/adesmia-salicornioides.- “Adesmia Salicornioides.” The Plant List. Accessed 23 August 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/ild-1125.
