Contents
Description
Anthyllis is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family Fabaceae. They are commonly known as kidney vetches or ladies’ fingers. These plants are native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. Anthyllis species are annual or perennial herbs, subshrubs, or shrubs. They have compound leaves with three to nine leaflets and showy flowers that are pink, purple, or yellow. The flowers of Anthyllis are arranged in spikes or heads and are pollinated by bees and butterflies. The fruit is a pod that contains one or two seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Anthyllis |
Appearance
Anthyllis plants have compound leaves that are arranged alternately on the stem. The leaflets are oval or lance-shaped and have a smooth or hairy texture. The flowers are arranged in spikes or heads at the end of the stems and have five petals that are fused at the base. The flowers can be pink, purple, or yellow, and are about 1 cm in diameter. The fruit is a pod that is about 2 cm long and contains one or two seeds.
Care Guide
Water
Anthyllis plants prefer well-drained soil that is kept evenly moist. They do not like to be waterlogged, so it is important to ensure that the soil has good drainage. Water the plants deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
Fertilization
Anthyllis plants do not require fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil in the spring to promote growth.
Soil
Anthyllis plants prefer well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. They can tolerate poor soil but do not like to be waterlogged.
Sunlight
Anthyllis plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade but will not flower as well.
Hardiness Zones
Anthyllis plants are hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Anthyllis plants are susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soil. They can also be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, and spider mites. To prevent these problems, ensure that the soil is well-drained and provide good air circulation around the plants.
Habitat
Anthyllis plants are native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. They can be found in meadows, pastures, and on rocky slopes. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Anthyllis plants easy to grow?
A: Anthyllis plants are relatively easy to grow as long as they are provided with well-drained soil and full sun.
Q: Can Anthyllis plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Anthyllis plants can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Anthyllis plants be fertilized?
A: Anthyllis plants do not require fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil in the spring to promote growth.
Q: How do I prevent root rot in Anthyllis plants?
A: To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained and do not overwater the plants.
Related Plants
- Astragalus
- Lathyrus
- Medicago
- Trifolium
References
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/23425/anthyllis-vulneraria/details
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/kidney-vetch/growing-kidney-vetch.htm
- https://www.britannica.com/plant/Anthyllis
