Dalibarda

Description

Dalibarda is a low-growing, perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in moist meadows, woodland edges, and bogs. The plant has a creeping habit and can spread quickly through rhizomes. It produces heart-shaped leaves and white or pink flowers with five petals. The plant blooms from May to July and can grow up to 6 inches tall.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Dalibarda has heart-shaped, toothed, and hairy leaves that grow up to 3 inches wide and 6 inches long. The leaves are green in color and have a slightly hairy texture. The plant produces white or pink flowers that have five petals and grow up to 1 inch in diameter. The flowers bloom in clusters and have a sweet scent. The plant can grow up to 6 inches tall and can spread up to 18 inches wide through its rhizomes.

Care Guide

Dalibarda prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, especially during the growing season. Fertilize the plant with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer months. The plant prefers partial shade to full shade and can tolerate temperatures down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit. It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Dalibarda is generally a pest and disease-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. The plant can also be affected by slugs and snails, which can be controlled by using organic slug baits.

Habitat

Dalibarda is native to North America and can be found in moist meadows, woodland edges, and bogs. The plant prefers moist soil and partial shade to full shade. It can grow in a wide range of soil types as long as the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Dalibarda be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Dalibarda can be grown in containers as long as the containers are large enough to accommodate the plant’s spreading habit.

Q: How often should I water my Dalibarda?

A: Dalibarda prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist, especially during the growing season.

Q: Can I propagate Dalibarda through division?

A: Yes, Dalibarda can be propagated through division in the spring or fall. Simply dig up the plant and divide it into smaller sections, making sure each section has a healthy rhizome.

Q: Does Dalibarda attract pollinators?

A: Yes, Dalibarda produces flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Dalibarda:

• Galium odoratum
• Asarum europaeum
• Saxifraga
• Heuchera
• Tiarella

References

• “Dalibarda.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 14 July 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b592>.
• “Dalibarda.” North Carolina State University. Accessed 14 July 2021. <https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/dalibarda/>.
• “Dalibarda.” The Spruce. Accessed 14 July 2021. <https://www.thespruce.com/dalibarda-plant-profile-4842621>.