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Description
Dasispermum is a genus of flowering plants in the Apiaceae family. The genus has only one known species, Dasispermum suffruticosum, which is native to South Africa. The plant is commonly known as “woody caraway” due to its caraway-like scent.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Dasispermum |
Appearance
Dasispermum suffruticosum is a small, evergreen shrub that grows up to 1 meter tall. The plant has narrow, linear leaves that are about 10 cm long and 1 mm wide. The leaves are arranged in a rosette-like manner at the base of the stem. The plant produces small, white flowers in clusters at the end of the stems. The flowers are followed by small, green fruits that turn brown when ripe. The fruits have a caraway-like scent.
Care Guide
Dasispermum suffruticosum is a hardy plant that requires little care. Here are some tips for growing and caring for this plant:- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.- Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization. You can fertilize the plant once a year in spring with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Dasispermum suffruticosum is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dasispermum suffruticosum is generally pest-free and disease-resistant. However, like all plants, it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common pests and diseases of Dasispermum suffruticosum:- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing it to wilt and die. You can control aphids by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or using insecticidal soap.- Mealybugs: These insects look like small, white, cottony masses and can also cause the plant to wilt and die. You can control mealybugs by wiping them off the plant with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.- Root rot: This fungal disease can occur if the plant is overwatered or grown in poorly drained soil. You can prevent root rot by ensuring the plant is grown in well-drained soil and not overwatered.
Habitat
Dasispermum suffruticosum is native to South Africa and is found in rocky areas and on hillsides. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dasispermum suffruticosum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container has drainage holes and the soil is well-drained.
Q: Does Dasispermum suffruticosum require pruning?
A: The plant does not require regular pruning but can be pruned to control its size or shape.
Q: Can Dasispermum suffruticosum be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from cuttings taken in spring or summer.
Q: Is Dasispermum suffruticosum a drought-tolerant plant?
A: The plant can tolerate drought once established but prefers regular watering.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Apiaceae family include:- Carrot (Daucus carota)- Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)- Dill (Anethum graveolens)- Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
References
– “Dasispermum.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/dasispermtinctorium.htm.- “Dasispermum suffruticosum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282762.
