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Description
Cycladenia Humilis, commonly known as low desert star, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. This plant is known for its stunning, star-shaped pink flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. Cycladenia Humilis grows to a height of 6 to 12 inches and spreads up to 3 feet wide.
Taxonomic Information
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Tracheophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Gentianales
Family: Apocynaceae
Genus: Cycladenia
Appearance
Cycladenia Humilis has a small, compact form, with green oval-shaped leaves that grow up to 2 inches long. Its flowers are pink and star-shaped, with five petals, and grow up to 2 inches in diameter. The flowers have yellow centers and bloom on the top of the plant’s short stems. Cycladenia Humilis blooms in late spring and early summer, and its flowers last for a few weeks.
Care Guide
Water: Cycladenia Humilis is drought-tolerant and does not need frequent watering. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Cycladenia Humilis does not require regular fertilization. However, you can add a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring to encourage healthy growth.
Soil: Cycladenia Humilis prefers well-draining soils that are sandy or rocky. It thrives in soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0.
Sunlight: Cycladenia Humilis prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Cycladenia Humilis is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cycladenia Humilis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. In addition, spider mites and aphids may occasionally infest the plant. Treat pest infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Cycladenia Humilis is native to the low desert regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is commonly found in sandy or rocky soils in open areas, such as deserts and grasslands. Cycladenia Humilis can also grow in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cycladenia Humilis grow in containers?
A: Yes, Cycladenia Humilis can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I water Cycladenia Humilis?
A: Water Cycladenia Humilis only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Q: Can Cycladenia Humilis tolerate heat?
A: Yes, Cycladenia Humilis is heat-tolerant and can thrive in hot, dry conditions.
Q: How do I propagate Cycladenia Humilis?
A: Cycladenia Humilis can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings.
Related Plants
- Cycladenia Fremontii
- Cycladenia Grandiflora
- Cycladenia Humilis Var. Venusta
- Cycladenia Rigida
References
- “Cycladenia Humilis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed September 21, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CYHU.
- “Cycladenia Humilis.” Plant Finder. Accessed September 21, 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/3522/desert-star/.
- “Cycladenia Humilis.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed September 21, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CYHU.