Contents
Description
Andromeda Polifolia Compacta is a low-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is a native plant of North America and Europe, where it grows in wetlands, bogs, and other marshy areas. The plant has a compact and dense growth habit, with a height of up to 12 inches and a spread of up to 24 inches. It blooms in late spring to early summer, producing beautiful clusters of pink and white flowers that are bell-shaped.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Andromeda |
Appearance
The leaves of Andromeda Polifolia Compacta are dark green, glossy, and needle-like, measuring approximately 0.5 inches long. The foliage is evergreen, which means that the plant retains its leaves throughout the year. The flowers of the plant are bell-shaped and measure approximately 0.25 inches in diameter. They are arranged in clusters at the tips of the branches and are pink or white in color. The plant has a compact and dense growth habit, with a height of up to 12 inches and a spread of up to 24 inches.
Care Guide
Andromeda Polifolia Compacta requires consistent moisture to thrive, so it should be watered regularly. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be fertilized in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer. It prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. The plant prefers partial to full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 2-6.
Common Pests & Diseases
Andromeda Polifolia Compacta is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including spider mites, scale insects, and leaf spot. Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. Scale insects are small, immobile pests that attach themselves to the plant and suck the sap. Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. To prevent these problems, the plant should be kept healthy and well-maintained.
Habitat
Andromeda Polifolia Compacta is a native plant of North America and Europe, where it grows in wetlands, bogs, and other marshy areas. It prefers acidic soil and moist conditions, making it an ideal choice for water gardens, bog gardens, and other wetland habitats. It is also suitable for rock gardens, container gardens, and as a ground cover.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Andromeda Polifolia Compacta a good plant for water gardens?
A: Yes, Andromeda Polifolia Compacta is an excellent plant for water gardens, bog gardens, and other wetland habitats.
Q: How often should Andromeda Polifolia Compacta be fertilized?
A: Andromeda Polifolia Compacta should be fertilized once a year in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: What is the ideal pH for Andromeda Polifolia Compacta?
A: Andromeda Polifolia Compacta prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5.
Q: Is Andromeda Polifolia Compacta deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Andromeda Polifolia Compacta is deer-resistant.
Related Plants
- Andromeda polifolia
- Andromeda polifolia ‘Blue Ice’
- Andromeda polifolia ‘Compacta’
- Andromeda polifolia ‘Mountain Fire’
- Andromeda polifolia ‘Pink Elf’
References
- Dirr, M. A. (1998). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing L.L.C.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Andromeda polifolia compacta. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280885
- RHS. (2021). Andromeda polifolia compacta. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/2548/Andromeda-polifolia-Compacta/Details
