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Description
Calpurnia Villosa, also known as hairy-stemmed calpurnia, is a shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is native to southern Africa and is widely distributed in South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini. It is known for its beautiful, vibrant flowers that bloom in late winter through early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Calpurnia |
Appearance
The hairy-stemmed calpurnia can grow up to 2-3 meters tall and 1-2 meters wide. The leaves are compound, with 3-5 leaflets, and are dark green in color. The stems are hairy, hence the name, and the flowers are pea-shaped and range in color from yellow to orange to red. The fruit is a long, narrow pod that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Calpurnia Villosa is fairly easy to care for, as long as you provide it with the right conditions. Here are some important care tips:
- Water: This plant likes to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water it regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Soil: Calpurnia Villosa prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can add peat moss or compost to improve the soil quality.
- Sunlight: This plant needs full sun to partial shade. Make sure it gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Calpurnia Villosa can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers a moderate climate. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calpurnia Villosa is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common problems. Here are a few to look out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to yellow and wilt. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause the leaves to have a speckled appearance. Use neem oil spray to control them.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Make sure the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged.
Habitat
Calpurnia Villosa is native to southern Africa and is commonly found in grasslands, savannas, and rocky slopes. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types and is often used for erosion control and reclamation of degraded land.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Calpurnia Villosa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does Calpurnia Villosa attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I prune Calpurnia Villosa?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged wood. You can also prune it to shape it or control its size.
Q: Can Calpurnia Villosa be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate the plant from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn.
Related Plants
- Calpurnia aurea
- Calpurnia sericea
- Calpurnia stuhlmannii
References
- PlantZAfrica. (n.d.). Calpurnia villosa. Retrieved from https://pza.sanbi.org/calpurnia-villosa/
- South African National Biodiversity Institute. (n.d.). Calpurnia villosa. Retrieved from https://www.sanbi.org/plant-of-the-week/calpurnia-villosa/
- Gardening Know How. (n.d.). Calpurnia Plant Care: Tips On Growing Calpurnia Shrubs. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/calpurnia-plant-care.htm
