Armeria Maritima Alba
Contents
Description
Armeria Maritima Alba is a small and compact evergreen perennial that belongs to the Plumbaginaceae family. Commonly known as Thrift, Sea Pink, or Sea Thrift, this plant is native to Europe and can be found in rocky coastal regions, salt marshes, and cliffs. The plant produces clumps of narrow, grass-like leaves that form a low mound, and small white or pink flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Plumbaginaceae |
| Genus | Armeria |
Appearance
Armeria Maritima Alba is a low-growing plant that reaches a height of 6-12 inches and a spread of 12-18 inches. The plant produces clumps of narrow, grass-like leaves that are about 4 inches long and 1/8 inch wide. The leaves are dark green in color and form a low mound that is about 3-6 inches tall. The plant produces small white or pink flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are about 1/2 inch wide and are held on thin stems that rise above the foliage. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Armeria Maritima Alba is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer.Soil: Plant Armeria Maritima Alba in well-draining soil that is sandy or loamy. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil.Sunlight: Plant Armeria Maritima Alba in full sun to part shade. The plant prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Armeria Maritima Alba is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Armeria Maritima Alba is a relatively pest- and disease-resistant plant. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained. Some pests that may affect this plant include aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. To prevent and control these pests, spray the plant with a soap-and-water solution or use insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Armeria Maritima Alba is native to Europe and can be found in rocky coastal regions, salt marshes, and cliffs. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to part shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Armeria Maritima Alba a good plant for rock gardens?
A: Yes, Armeria Maritima Alba is an excellent choice for rock gardens due to its low-growing habit and tolerance of rocky soil.Q: Does Armeria Maritima Alba attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers attract bees and butterflies.Q: How often should I fertilize Armeria Maritima Alba?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer.Q: Is Armeria Maritima Alba drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, the plant is drought-tolerant and can withstand periods of dryness.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that are similar to Armeria Maritima Alba:
- Armeria Maritima Rubrifolia
- Armeria Pseudarmeria Ballerina Red
- Armeria Alliacea
- Armeria Cespitosa
References
- “Armeria Maritima.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278542&isprofile=0&
- “Sea Thrift (Armeria Maritima).” Garden Design. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/sea-thrift.html
- “Armeria Maritima Alba.” Plant Finder. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1621/sea-thrift/
