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Description
Boerhavia Coccinea, also known as the Scarlet Spiderling, is a flowering plant native to the Americas. It belongs to the Nyctaginaceae family and is a perennial herb. This plant is commonly found in sandy soils and can grow up to 1 meter tall. It has a low branching habit and produces pink to red flowers. The Scarlet Spiderling is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Nyctaginaceae |
| Genus | Boerhavia |
Appearance
The Scarlet Spiderling has a low branching habit and produces hairy stems that can grow up to 1 meter tall. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate-shaped, measuring up to 7 cm long and 4 cm wide. The flowers are pink to red and are produced in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a capsule that contains tiny seeds. The Scarlet Spiderling is a drought-tolerant plant and can survive in dry, sandy soils.
Care Guide
Water: The Scarlet Spiderling is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive in dry soils. Water this plant only when the soil is completely dry.Fertilization: This plant does not require frequent fertilization. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: The Scarlet Spiderling grows well in well-draining, sandy soils.Sunlight: This plant requires full sun to grow and bloom.Hardiness Zones: The Scarlet Spiderling can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Scarlet Spiderling is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Scarlet Spiderling is native to the Americas and is commonly found in sandy soils. It can be found in open fields, along roadsides, and in disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Scarlet Spiderling a medicinal plant?A: Yes, the Scarlet Spiderling is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Scarlet Spiderling?A: The Scarlet Spiderling can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.Q: What pests can attack the Scarlet Spiderling?A: The Scarlet Spiderling can be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies.Q: How often should I water the Scarlet Spiderling?A: Water the Scarlet Spiderling only when the soil is completely dry.
Related Plants
- Boerhavia Diffusa
- Boerhavia Erecta
- Boerhavia Repens
- Boerhavia Tetrandra
References
- “Boerhavia Coccinea.” Floridata, 2021, https://floridata.com/plant/1047.
- “Boerhavia Coccinea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c159.
- “Scarlet Spiderling.” Dave’s Garden, 2021, https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/146075/.
