Anthocercis littorea, commonly known as coast anthocercis, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Solanaceae. This plant is endemic to Australia and can be found in Western Australia, South Australia, and Victoria. It is a small shrub that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and 1 meter wide.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Anthocercis |
Appearance
The Anthocercis littorea plant is a small shrub that has a woody base and several stems. The leaves are narrow and can grow up to 6 centimeters long. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The petals are yellow and have purple spots at their base. The fruit is a small, round capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Anthocercis Littorea is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. However, it is important to provide it with proper watering, fertilization, soil, and sunlight to ensure its healthy growth.
Water: Anthocercis Littorea requires regular watering during the growing season, but it should not be over-watered. The soil should be allowed to dry partially before watering again.
Fertilization: This plant requires minimal fertilization, and it can be fertilized annually with a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season.
Soil: Anthocercis Littorea grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not flower as well in low light conditions.
Hardiness Zones: Anthocercis Littorea is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Anthocercis Littorea is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with a mild insecticide or by washing the plant with soapy water. The plant may also be affected by root rot if it is over-watered or planted in poorly-drained soil.
Habitat
Anthocercis Littorea grows in coastal heathlands, sand dunes, and on limestone cliffs. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate salty conditions. It is often found growing near the coast and is adapted to withstand strong winds and salt spray.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Anthocercis Littorea an annual or perennial plant?
A: Anthocercis Littorea is a perennial plant that can live for several years.
Q: Can Anthocercis Littorea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Anthocercis Littorea can be grown in containers. However, it will require more frequent watering than if it were planted in the ground.
Q: Does Anthocercis Littorea attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Anthocercis Littorea is attractive to bees and butterflies, which are important pollinators for this plant.
Q: When is the best time to prune Anthocercis Littorea?
A: Anthocercis Littorea can be pruned in late winter or early spring before the new growth appears. It should be pruned lightly to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Related Plants
- Anthocercis viscosa
- Anthocercis gracilis
- Anthocercis littoralis
- Anthocercis angustifolia
References
- https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/interns-2013/anthocercis-littorea.html
- https://www.gardeningwithangus.com.au/anthocercis-littorea-coast-anthocercis/
- https://www.australianplantsonline.com.au/anthocercis-littorea-coastal-anthocercis.html
