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Description
Anabasis Brevifolia, commonly known as the dwarf anabasis, is a small, desert shrub native to North Africa and the Middle East. It belongs to the Chenopodiaceae family and is an evergreen perennial plant that can grow up to 30 cm tall. The plant has a woody base and numerous branches covered with small, narrow leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Chenopodiaceae |
| Genus | Anabasis |
| Species | Brevifolia |
Appearance
The dwarf anabasis is a small, woody shrub that can grow up to 30 cm tall. It has many branches covered with small, narrow leaves that are greenish-gray in color. The leaves are about 1 cm long and are covered with small hairs that give them a fuzzy appearance. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are greenish-yellow in color and bloom in the summer. The plant’s fruit is a small, round capsule that contains many small seeds.
Care Guide
The dwarf anabasis is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It can survive with very little water and does not require regular fertilization. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Water
The dwarf anabasis is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering. It can survive with very little water, but it should be watered occasionally during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Fertilization
The dwarf anabasis does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year to provide the plant with essential nutrients.
Soil
The dwarf anabasis prefers well-drained soil with a slightly alkaline pH. It can tolerate poor soil conditions and does not require regular soil amendments.
Sunlight
The dwarf anabasis prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate hot, dry conditions. It should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
The dwarf anabasis is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°F (-12°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
The dwarf anabasis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if it is planted in poorly drained soil. It may also be affected by spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The dwarf anabasis is native to North Africa and the Middle East. It grows in arid, desert regions and can survive in very dry conditions. It is often found growing in rocky, sandy soils and is an important component of desert ecosystems.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the dwarf anabasis be grown indoors?
A: The dwarf anabasis is not well-suited for indoor growing. It requires full sun exposure and prefers to be planted in well-drained soil.
Q: How often should I water the dwarf anabasis?
A: The dwarf anabasis is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering. It can survive with very little water, but it should be watered occasionally during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Q: Can the dwarf anabasis be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the dwarf anabasis can be propagated from cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch stem cutting from a healthy plant and plant it in well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting should root within a few weeks.
Q: Is the dwarf anabasis edible?
A: No, the dwarf anabasis is not edible. It contains high levels of oxalates, which can be toxic to humans and animals if ingested.
Related Plants
- Anabasis Articulata
- Anabasis Aphylla
- Anabasis Trinervis
References
- “Anabasis Brevifolia.” Desert Plants of Avalon, 26 Jan. 2016, www.desertplantsofavalon.com/anabasis-brevifolia/.
- “Anabasis Brevifolia.” World of Succulents, www.worldofsucculents.com/anabasis-brevifolia-dwarf-anabasis/.
- “Anabasis Brevifolia.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/anabisbrev.htm.
