Contents
Description
Dorycnium is a genus of flowering plants in the family Fabaceae. It is commonly known as “bean trefoil” due to its seed pods that resemble small beans. This genus consists of around 50 species that are mainly native to the Mediterranean region, but some can also be found in North Africa and Asia. The plants in this genus are typically small shrubs or subshrubs with woody stems, and they produce clusters of small flowers that range in color from white to pink or purple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Dorycnium |
Appearance
Dorycnium plants are small shrubs or subshrubs that can grow up to 1 meter in height. They have woody stems and small, grey-green leaves that are arranged in a spiral pattern along the stem. The leaves are typically made up of three leaflets that are oval or lance-shaped and have a smooth edge. The flowers of Dorycnium plants are small and clustered together in spikes that emerge from the stem. They can range in color from white to pink or purple and typically bloom in the spring and summer.
Care Guide
- Water: Dorycnium plants prefer well-draining soil and should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought.
- Fertilization: These plants do not require a lot of fertilizer. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.
- Soil: Dorycnium plants prefer well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH.
- Sunlight: These plants prefer full sun to partial shade and should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
- Hardiness Zones: Dorycnium plants are hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dorycnium plants are relatively pest and disease-free. However, they can be susceptible to root rot if they are planted in soil that does not drain well. In addition, spider mites and aphids can occasionally infest these plants. To prevent these pests, it is important to keep the plants well-watered and to remove any infected leaves or stems.
Habitat
Dorycnium plants are native to the Mediterranean region, but some species can also be found in North Africa and Asia. They typically grow in dry, rocky areas and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay and sand. These plants are well-suited to growing in coastal regions and can tolerate salt spray.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dorycnium plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Dorycnium plants can be grown in containers, but they may require more frequent watering than plants grown in the ground.
Q: Are Dorycnium plants deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Dorycnium plants are deer-resistant.
Q: Can Dorycnium plants be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Dorycnium plants can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Q: Do Dorycnium plants attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the flowers of Dorycnium plants are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Lotus
- Trifolium
- Medicago
- Cytisus
References
- “Dorycnium.” The Plant List. Accessed 24 May 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Leguminosae/Dorycnium/.
- “Dorycnium.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 24 May 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282253&isprofile=0&basic=dorycnium.
- “Dorycnium.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 24 May 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/9383/Dorycnium/Details.
