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Description
Disparago Ericoides, also known as the False Heather, is a small, evergreen shrub native to South Africa. It belongs to the Ericaceae family and is often grown for its attractive foliage and delicate flowers that bloom in late summer and fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Disparago |
Appearance
Disparago Ericoides is a small shrub that grows up to 2 feet tall and wide. It has small, needle-like leaves that are arranged in whorls around the stem, giving it a delicate appearance. The leaves are dark green and glossy, and the plant produces small, pink or white flowers that bloom in late summer and fall. The flowers are bell-shaped and hang in clusters along the stems.
Care Guide
Disparago Ericoides is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water regularly, but do not overwater. Disparago Ericoides prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Soil: Disparago Ericoides prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate sandy or loamy soils, but does not do well in heavy clay soils.
- Sunlight: Disparago Ericoides prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause it to become leggy and weak.
- Hardiness Zones: Disparago Ericoides is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Disparago Ericoides is generally pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to the following:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the plant, causing leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Treat with insecticidal soap.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can kill the plant. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and do not overwater.
Habitat
Disparago Ericoides is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky, well-draining soils in full sun to partial shade. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Disparago Ericoides be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Disparago Ericoides can be grown indoors as a houseplant as long as it receives plenty of sunlight and is not overwatered.
Q: How often should Disparago Ericoides be fertilized?
A: Disparago Ericoides should be fertilized once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: Can Disparago Ericoides tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Disparago Ericoides is hardy in USDA zones 8-11 and can tolerate some cold temperatures, but it is not frost-resistant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Q: How often should Disparago Ericoides be pruned?
A: Disparago Ericoides does not require regular pruning, but can be pruned lightly after flowering to maintain its shape.
Related Plants
- Disparago Pentandra
- Disparago Sessiliflora
- Disparago Virgata
References
- “Disparago ericoides – False Heather.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 12 May 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280639&isprofile=0&basic=False>.
- “Disparago ericoides.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed 12 May 2021. <http://pza.sanbi.org/disparago-ericoides>.
- “False Heather.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 12 May 2021. <https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/false-heather.html>.
