Contents
Description
Dodecatheon Austrofrigidum, commonly known as the southern alpine shooting star, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the primrose family. It is native to the southern Andes in Argentina and Chile and is known for its stunning flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The plant grows up to 30 cm tall and has basal leaves that form a rosette. Each stem produces a single nodding flower that is pink with a yellow center. The flowers have five petals that are fused at their base to form a tube.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Primulaceae |
| Genus | Dodecatheon |
Appearance
The southern alpine shooting star has basal leaves that form a rosette. The leaves are up to 20 cm long and 5 cm wide and are lance-shaped with a pointed tip. The stem of the plant is thin and wiry and produces a single nodding flower that is pink with a yellow center. The flowers have five petals that are fused at their base to form a tube. The flower stalks are up to 30 cm tall and have several small bracts along their length. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer and is a beautiful addition to any garden.
Care Guide
Water: Dodecatheon Austrofrigidum prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods.Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in early spring.Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.Hardiness Zones: Dodecatheon Austrofrigidum is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dodecatheon Austrofrigidum is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases. However, it may be affected by slugs and snails, which can eat the leaves and flowers. Powdery mildew may also be a problem in humid conditions.
Habitat
Dodecatheon Austrofrigidum is native to the southern Andes in Argentina and Chile. It grows in alpine meadows and rocky slopes at elevations of 1500 to 3000 meters. The plant prefers cool, moist environments with well-drained soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dodecatheon Austrofrigidum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is moist and well-drained.Q: Does Dodecatheon Austrofrigidum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant is pollinated by bees and butterflies.Q: How often should Dodecatheon Austrofrigidum be watered?
A: The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods.Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Dodecatheon Austrofrigidum?
A: The plant prefers a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Related Plants
- Dodecatheon amethystinum
- Dodecatheon frenchii
- Dodecatheon hendersonii
- Dodecatheon jeffreyi
References
- “Dodecatheon austrofrigidum (J.Rémy) Fedde”. Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 2021-06-24.
- “Southern Alpine Shooting Star”. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved 2021-06-24.
- Dirr, Michael A. (2009). Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press. ISBN 978-0-88192-901-0.
- Armitage, Allan M. (2016). Herbaceous Perennial Plants: A Treatise on Their Identification, Culture, and Garden Attributes. Stipes Publishing. ISBN 978-1-58874-166-2.
