Contents
Description
Dasispermum Suffruticosum is a perennial plant that belongs to the carrot family (Apiaceae). It grows up to 1 meter in height and is native to the Mediterranean region, including southern France, Italy, and Spain. It is commonly known as the ‘shrubby hare’s ear’ due to its ear-shaped leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Dasispermum |
Appearance
The shrubby hare’s ear has woody stems and grows up to 1 meter in height. The leaves are ear-shaped, gray-green in color, and have a velvety texture. The flowers are small, white, and grow in clusters. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer. The fruits are small and egg-shaped.
Care Guide
Water: The shrubby hare’s ear requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil: The shrubby hare’s ear prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sunlight or partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The shrubby hare’s ear is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The shrubby hare’s ear is susceptible to powdery mildew, spider mites, and aphids. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and treat with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
The shrubby hare’s ear is native to the Mediterranean region, including southern France, Italy, and Spain. It grows in rocky, dry habitats, including hillsides, cliffs, and scrublands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the shrubby hare’s ear easy to grow?
A: Yes, it is a relatively easy plant to grow and care for.
Q: Can the shrubby hare’s ear be grown in a container?
A: Yes, it can be grown in a container as long as it has sufficient drainage.
Q: Does the shrubby hare’s ear require pruning?
A: Yes, it benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth.
Q: Does the shrubby hare’s ear attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Dasispermum Canescens
- Dasispermum Gaudinii
- Dasispermum Multiflorum
References
- “Dasispermum Suffruticosum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 22 July 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/264770/dasispermum-suffruticosum/details
- “Dasispermum Suffruticosum (L.) DC.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 22 July 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:841571-1
- “Shrubby Hare’s Ear.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 July 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c372
