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Description
Carmichaelia Monroi, commonly known as Monro’s broom or Monro’s scorpionweed, is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae. It is endemic to New Zealand and can be found in rocky or gravelly sites in the South Island, particularly in the Otago region. Carmichaelia Monroi is a small shrub that can grow up to 1 meter in height. It has fine, needle-like leaves that are green-grey in color and small white flowers that bloom from August to December.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukarya|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Spermatophyta|| Class| Magnoliopsida|| Order| Fabales|| Family| Fabaceae|| Genus| Carmichaelia|| Species| Monroi|
Appearance
Carmichaelia Monroi is a small shrub that grows up to 1 meter in height. Its needle-like leaves are green-grey in color and measure approximately 10 mm in length. The plant produces small white flowers that bloom from August to December. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the ends of the branches and measure around 7 mm in length. The fruit of the plant is a small, dry pod that contains one or two seeds.
Care Guide
Carmichaelia Monroi is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for your Monro’s broom:- Water: Water your plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer to your plant once a year in the spring.- Soil: Carmichaelia Monroi prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.- Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Carmichaelia Monroi is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Carmichaelia Monroi is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Additionally, aphids and spider mites may infest the plant, but can be easily managed with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Carmichaelia Monroi is endemic to New Zealand and can be found in rocky or gravelly sites in the South Island, particularly in the Otago region. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Carmichaelia Monroi a threatened species?
A: Yes, Carmichaelia Monroi is listed as a threatened species in New Zealand.
Q: Can I propagate Carmichaelia Monroi from cuttings?
A: It is possible to propagate Carmichaelia Monroi from cuttings, but it can be challenging.
Q: Does Carmichaelia Monroi attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Carmichaelia Monroi is known to attract bees and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Carmichaelia Monroi?
A: It is recommended to fertilize your Carmichaelia Monroi once a year in the spring.
Related Plants
– Carmichaelia Appressa- Carmichaelia Compacta- Carmichaelia Kirkii- Carmichaelia Stebbingii
References
– “Carmichaelia Monroi.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/carmichaelia-monroi/- “Carmichaelia Monroi – Monro’s Broom.” New Zealand Native Plants. https://www.nzplantpics.com/native-shrubs/carmichaelia-monroi-monros-broom/
