Contents
Description
Degenia Velebitica, also known as Velebit spurge, is a rare and endangered plant species found in the Velebit mountain range of Croatia. It belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae and is a small, perennial herb that grows up to 15cm in height. The plant has a woody rootstock and forms dense clusters of stems that are covered in tiny, hairy leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Degenia |
Appearance
The leaves of Degenia Velebitica are small and oval-shaped, measuring only 3-5mm in length. They are covered in fine, white hairs that give the plant a silvery appearance. The stems are also covered in these hairs and are reddish-brown in color. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the summer months that are greenish-yellow in color.
Care Guide
Degenia Velebitica is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and can tolerate dry conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilization: Degenia Velebitica does not require fertilization.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Degenia Velebitica is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Degenia Velebitica is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot if overwatered. Here are some common pests and diseases:
- Powdery mildew: A fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Treat with a fungicide or remove affected leaves.
- Root rot: Caused by overwatering, this disease causes the roots to rot and the plant to wilt. Reduce watering and improve soil drainage to prevent root rot.
Habitat
Degenia Velebitica is native to the Velebit mountain range in Croatia. It grows in rocky, limestone soils at elevations of 1200-1400m. The plant is adapted to dry, arid conditions and can survive in harsh environments.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Degenia Velebitica a rare plant?
A: Yes, Degenia Velebitica is a rare and endangered plant species.
Q: What kind of soil does Degenia Velebitica prefer?
A: Degenia Velebitica prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
Q: Can Degenia Velebitica tolerate dry conditions?
A: Yes, Degenia Velebitica is adapted to dry, arid conditions and can tolerate dry soil.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases of Degenia Velebitica?
A: Degenia Velebitica is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but may be susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot if overwatered.
Related Plants
- Degenia Rubricaulis
- Degenia Viscida
- Euphorbia Rigida
- Euphorbia Myrsinites
References
- https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/200269/2715577
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=DEVE2
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/degenia-velebitica
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c706
