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Description
Alternanthera Sessilis, also known as Sessile Joyweed, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Amaranthaceae family. It is native to Asia and Africa and is commonly found in wetlands, swamps, and shallow waters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Alternanthera |
Appearance
Alternanthera Sessilis has oval-shaped leaves that are green on top and reddish-purple underneath. The leaves are arranged opposite each other on the stem and can grow up to 3 inches long. The plant can reach a height of up to 1 meter and has small white flowers that bloom in clusters.
Care Guide
Alternanthera Sessilis is a low-maintenance plant that requires moderate watering and fertilization. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and can tolerate full sun to partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and can be grown in containers or in the ground.
Water
Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Stop fertilization during the winter months.
Soil
Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0-7.5.
Sunlight
Alternanthera Sessilis can tolerate full sun to partial shade. However, it prefers partial shade in hot climates.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Alternanthera Sessilis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be prone to root rot if overwatered. Watch out for slugs and snails that may eat the leaves.
Habitat
Alternanthera Sessilis is native to Asia and Africa and is commonly found in wetlands, swamps, and shallow waters. It grows well in moist soil and can tolerate flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Alternanthera Sessilis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives sufficient sunlight and is watered regularly.
Q: How often should Alternanthera Sessilis be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
Q: Does Alternanthera Sessilis attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s small white flowers can attract bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Alternanthera Sessilis be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
- Alternanthera Ficoidea
- Alternanthera Reineckii
- Alternanthera Brasiliana
References
- “Alternanthera sessilis – Useful Tropical Plants.” Useful Tropical Plants. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Alternanthera+sessilis.
- “Alternanthera sessilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 22, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c237.
- “Alternanthera Sessilis – Sessile Joyweed – Plant Information.” Agri Farming. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://agrifarming.in/alternanthera-sessilis-sessile-joyweed-plant-information.
