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Description
Echinodium Hispidum, commonly known as the hairy echinodium, is a species of flowering plant from the family Goodeniaceae. It is native to Australia and is found in the states of Western Australia, South Australia, and Victoria. The plant is an annual herb that grows up to 30cm tall and has a hairy stem and leaves. The flowers of Echinodium Hispidum are small and blue, and they bloom from spring to summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Goodeniaceae |
| Genus | Echinodium |
Appearance
The hairy echinodium has a hairy stem and leaves that are green or gray-green in color. The leaves are narrow and toothed, growing up to 5cm long and 1cm wide. The flowers are small and blue, growing in clusters on long stems above the foliage. Each flower has five petals and a yellow center. The plant blooms from spring to summer, and the seeds are small and black.
Care Guide
Echinodium Hispidum is an easy plant to grow and care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but don’t let the soil become waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Echinodium Hispidum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Echinodium Hispidum is not known to be susceptible to any major pests or diseases. However, it may be attacked by aphids or whiteflies. Apply insecticidal soap to control these pests.
Habitat
Echinodium Hispidum is native to Australia and is found in a variety of habitats, including sandy soils, rocky outcrops, and disturbed areas. It is commonly found in the states of Western Australia, South Australia, and Victoria.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Echinodium Hispidum a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Echinodium Hispidum is an annual plant.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Echinodium Hispidum?
A: The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.
Q: How often should I water Echinodium Hispidum?
A: Water the plant regularly, but don’t let the soil become waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between watering.
Q: Can Echinodium Hispidum be grown indoors?
A: While Echinodium Hispidum can be grown indoors, it prefers full sun and may not thrive in low-light conditions.
Related Plants
- Echinodium Asperum
- Echinodium Breviscapum
- Echinodium Capitatum
- Echinodium Grandiflorum
References
- “Echinodium hispidum”. Australian Plant Name Index (APNI).
- “Echinodium hispidum”. FloraBase. Western Australian Government Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.
- “Echinodium hispidum”. Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
