Azorella Exigua

Description

Azorella Exigua, commonly known as Cushion Azorella, is a small, mat-forming plant belonging to the Apiaceae family. It is native to the high altitude regions of South America, including Chile and Argentina. The plant is highly prized for its unique appearance and is often used in rock gardens or as a ground cover in alpine areas. The plant’s foliage is green and glossy, with tightly packed leaves that form a cushion-like shape.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Apiales
Family	Apiaceae
Genus	Azorella

Appearance

Azorella Exigua is a small plant, with a height of only 3-6 cm and a spread of 10-20 cm. Its leaves are small, compact, and glossy, forming a cushion-like shape. The plant produces tiny, yellow-green flowers that bloom in the summer months. The flowers are held on delicate stems that rise slightly above the cushion of foliage. The plant is slow-growing but can live for many years, making it an excellent choice for rock gardens or alpine areas.

Care Guide

Water: Azorella Exigua prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be constantly wet. Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring may be beneficial.

Soil: Azorella Exigua prefers a well-drained, gritty soil mix that is low in organic matter.

Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade but will tolerate some shade in hot climates.

Hardiness Zones: Azorella Exigua is hardy in zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Azorella Exigua is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Keeping the soil well-drained is essential to prevent this disease.

Habitat

Azorella Exigua is native to the high altitude regions of South America, where it grows in rocky, alpine environments. The plant is adapted to cold temperatures and is often found in areas where the temperature drops below freezing at night.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Azorella Exigua easy to grow?

A: Yes, Azorella Exigua is relatively easy to grow, provided it is given well-drained soil and is not overwatered.

Q: Can Azorella Exigua be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Azorella Exigua is an excellent choice for container gardens, provided the container has adequate drainage.

Q: How often should I fertilize Azorella Exigua?

A: Azorella Exigua does not require regular fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring may be beneficial.

Q: Can Azorella Exigua be grown indoors?

A: No, Azorella Exigua is an alpine plant and requires cold temperatures to thrive.

Related Plants

• Azorella Trifurcata
• Azorella Selago
• Azorella Compacta

References

• “Azorella Exigua.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a842.
• “Azorella Exigua.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/6701/i-Azorella-exigua-i/Details.