Contents
Description
Croomia Japonica is a perennial plant that is native to Japan, Korea, and China. It belongs to the family Croomiaceae and is the only species in its genus. The plant is also known as Japanese Croomia or Croomia.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dioscoreales |
| Family | Croomiaceae |
| Genus | Croomia |
Appearance
Croomia Japonica grows up to 15 cm tall and has a spread of up to 30 cm. The plant has dark green, glossy, heart-shaped leaves that are approximately 7 cm long and 5 cm wide. The flowers are small and white, and they grow in clusters at the end of the stem. The plant blooms in late summer to early fall.
Care Guide
Croomia Japonica requires moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 5-9.Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, and more frequently in hot, dry weather.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Repeat every 6-8 weeks during the growing season.Soil: Use a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Croomia Japonica prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.Hardiness Zones: Croomia Japonica is hardy to USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Croomia Japonica is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Croomia Japonica is native to Japan, Korea, and China. The plant grows in moist, shady areas such as forests and along stream banks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Croomia Japonica easy to grow?
A: Yes, Croomia Japonica is relatively easy to grow as long as it is provided with the right growing conditions.
Q: Can Croomia Japonica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Croomia Japonica can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Croomia Japonica?
A: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Repeat every 6-8 weeks during the growing season.
Q: How do I propagate Croomia Japonica?
A: Croomia Japonica can be propagated by division in early spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Croomia Heterosepala
- Croomia Pauciflora
- Croomia Ferruginea
References
- “Croomia Japonica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c195. Accessed 6 May 2021.
- “Croomia Japonica.” Plant Delights Nursery, www.plantdelights.com/products/croomia-japonica. Accessed 6 May 2021.
- “Croomia Japonica.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16408/Croomia-japonica/Details. Accessed 6 May 2021.
