Contents
Description
Epilobium Billardierianum Subsp. Cinereum is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Onagraceae. It is commonly known as the dwarf fireweed or cinereous willowherb. It is native to the sub-Antarctic islands of New Zealand and southern South America. The plant is known for its beautiful pink flowers that bloom in late summer or early fall. The leaves of the plant are narrow and lance-shaped, and it can grow up to 30cm in height. The plant is commonly used in rock gardens, borders, and other ornamental plantings.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Onagraceae |
| Genus | Epilobium |
Appearance
The Epilobium Billardierianum Subsp. Cinereum plant has narrow and lance-shaped leaves that are light green in color. The leaves are about 2-4 cm long and 0.5 cm wide. The flowers of the plant are pink in color, and they bloom in late summer or early fall. The flowers are about 1 cm in diameter and have four petals. The plant can grow up to 30cm in height and has a spread of about 20cm. The plant has a clumping habit and forms a dense mat of foliage.
Care Guide
Epilobium Billardierianum Subsp. Cinereum is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. You can fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will bloom less in shady areas.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Epilobium Billardierianum Subsp. Cinereum plant is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Leaf spot
- Powdery mildew
To prevent these problems, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Epilobium Billardierianum Subsp. Cinereum is native to the sub-Antarctic islands of New Zealand and southern South America. It grows in rocky and gravelly areas, on talus slopes, and in disturbed areas. The plant can tolerate dry soil and harsh weather conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Epilobium Billardierianum Subsp. Cinereum an invasive plant?
A: No, Epilobium Billardierianum Subsp. Cinereum is not considered an invasive plant. It is a low-growing plant that does not spread aggressively.
Q: Can Epilobium Billardierianum Subsp. Cinereum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Epilobium Billardierianum Subsp. Cinereum can be grown in containers. Make sure the container has good drainage and use a well-draining soil mix.
Q: Does Epilobium Billardierianum Subsp. Cinereum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Epilobium Billardierianum Subsp. Cinereum attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies with its showy pink flowers.
Q: How often should I prune Epilobium Billardierianum Subsp. Cinereum?
A: Epilobium Billardierianum Subsp. Cinereum does not require frequent pruning. You can prune the plant after flowering to encourage bushier growth.
Related Plants
- Epilobium angustifolium
- Epilobium ciliatum
- Epilobium hirsutum
- Epilobium parviflorum
References
- “Epilobium billardierianum subsp. cinereum.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Accessed July 14, 2021. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/epilobium-billardierianum-subsp-cinereum/.
- “Epilobium billardierianum subsp. cinereum.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed July 14, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/epilobium-billardierianum-subsp-cinereum.
- “Epilobium billardierianum subsp. cinereum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed July 14, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/12889/epilobium-billardierianum-subsp-cinereum/details.
