Contents
Description
Argyrolobium Incanum, commonly known as silver-leaved laburnum, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. Native to the Mediterranean region, this plant is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. It is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 2 meters in height and spreads up to 1.5 meters in width. The leaves are silvery-grey, and the flowers are golden-yellow, blooming in late spring and early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Argyrolobium |
Appearance
Silver-leaved laburnum has a dense, bushy habit with silvery-grey leaves that are soft to the touch. The leaves are pinnate, divided into 7-13 leaflets, and grow up to 10 cm long. The flowers are golden-yellow, pea-like, and arranged in long, showy clusters up to 30 cm long. The blooming period of the plant is usually from late spring through early summer, and the fruit is a flat, brown pod about 5-10 cm long.
Care Guide
To grow Argyrolobium Incanum successfully, it’s essential to provide the right care. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Argyrolobium Incanum prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun exposure, but it can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Argyrolobium Incanum can grow in hardiness zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Argyrolobium Incanum is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common ones to watch out for:
Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can attack the plant. Regularly check for these pests and remove them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Diseases: The plant can develop root rot, powdery mildew, and rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering, and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Argyrolobium Incanum is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found in rocky and sandy habitats, along roadsides, and in open woodlands. It can tolerate drought and hot temperatures, making it an ideal plant for Mediterranean gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Argyrolobium Incanum a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, Argyrolobium Incanum can tolerate drought conditions, making it an ideal plant for water-wise gardens.
Q: When is the best time to prune Argyrolobium Incanum?
A: Prune the plant after flowering in early summer to maintain its shape and promote new growth.
Q: Can Argyrolobium Incanum grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in containers, but ensure that the container has good drainage and use a well-draining soil mix.
Q: How often should I fertilize Argyrolobium Incanum?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Argyrolobium Incanum:
- Laburnum anagyroides
- Cytisus scoparius
- Genista tinctoria
- Retama sphaerocarpa
References
- RHS Plants. (n.d.). Argyrolobium incanum. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/10435/Argyrolobium-incanum/Details
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Argyrolobium incanum. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286552&isprofile=0&
- Gardening Know How. (2021). Silver Leaved Laburnum Care: How To Grow Argyrolobium Incanum. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/silver-leaved-laburnum/silver-leaved-laburnum-care.htm
