Bellium Crassifolium
Contents
Description
Bellium Crassifolium is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known as Thickleaf Bellflower and is native to the Mediterranean region. This plant has a low, creeping habit and produces small, white daisy-like flowers with yellow centers. The foliage of Bellium Crassifolium is leathery and dark green, which gives it a unique appearance. This plant is often used as ground cover and looks great in rock gardens or as a border plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Bellium |
Appearance
Bellium Crassifolium grows up to 6 inches in height and spreads up to 12 inches wide. The plant produces small, white flowers with yellow centers that bloom from spring to summer. The foliage is leathery and dark green, which gives it a unique appearance. The leaves are spoon-shaped and grow up to 1 inch long. Bellium Crassifolium has a low, creeping habit and looks great as ground cover or as a border plant. This plant is also deer-resistant and attracts butterflies and bees to the garden.
Care Guide
Bellium Crassifolium is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: Bellium Crassifolium prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize Bellium Crassifolium once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost before planting.
- Sunlight: Bellium Crassifolium prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the plant may produce fewer flowers in shady areas.
- Hardiness Zones: Bellium Crassifolium is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bellium Crassifolium is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. Occasionally, the plant may be attacked by aphids or spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Bellium Crassifolium is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in rocky or sandy areas. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions. This plant is often used as ground cover in rock gardens or as a border plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Bellium Crassifolium tolerate cold weather?
A: Bellium Crassifolium is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and can tolerate mild winters. However, it may need protection during harsh winters.
Q: Does Bellium Crassifolium attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Bellium Crassifolium attracts butterflies and bees to the garden.
Q: How often should I water Bellium Crassifolium?
A: Water Bellium Crassifolium regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil.
Q: Can Bellium Crassifolium grow in containers?
A: Yes, Bellium Crassifolium can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Related Plants
- Bellium minutum
- Bellium bellidioides
- Bellium crassipes
- Bellium ciliatum
References
- “Bellium crassifolium.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b132.
- “Bellium crassifolium.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/54863/.
- “Bellium crassifolium.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/7843/Bellium-crassifolium/Details.
