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Description
Athamanta Cretensis, also known as Cretan athamanta or Cretan masterwort, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the carrot family Apiaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region, specifically in Greece, and is commonly found growing in rocky and mountainous areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Athamanta |
Appearance
Athamanta Cretensis has a dense clump of basal leaves that are deeply divided and fern-like. The stems are slender, upright, and can reach up to 50 cm in height. The plant produces small white or pink flowers in umbels, which are arranged in a flat-topped cluster. The flowers are intricately detailed and have a delicate appearance, with five petals that are deeply divided and curled. The plant blooms in the late spring to early summer.
Care Guide
Athamanta Cretensis is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
Water
The plant prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in the winter months.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not over-fertilize, as this can lead to leggy growth and reduced flowering.
Soil
Athamanta Cretensis prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a range of soil pH levels but prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but this may reduce its flowering.
Hardiness Zones
Athamanta Cretensis is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Athamanta Cretensis is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be affected by the following:
Pests
- Aphids
- Spider mites
Diseases
- Powdery mildew
- Root rot
Habitat
Athamanta Cretensis is native to the Mediterranean region, specifically in Greece. It is commonly found growing in rocky and mountainous areas, in dry and well-drained soil. The plant can also be found growing in open and sunny areas such as meadows, fields, and pastures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Athamanta Cretensis a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Athamanta Cretensis is a relatively easy plant to care for and is suitable for beginners.
Q: Can Athamanta Cretensis grow in containers?
A: Yes, Athamanta Cretensis can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is watered regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize Athamanta Cretensis?
A: Fertilize Athamanta Cretensis once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Athamanta Cretensis?
A: Athamanta Cretensis can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Dig up the clump and separate the plants into smaller sections, replanting them at the same depth as the original plant.
Related Plants
- Athamanta Libanotis
- Athamanta Orobanche
- Athamanta Fumosa
References
- “Athamanta Cretensis.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 23 Mar. 2021.
- “Athamanta Cretensis.” Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, n.d. Web. 23 Mar. 2021.
- “Cretan Athamanta.” Royal Horticultural Society, n.d. Web. 23 Mar. 2021.
