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Description
Erinus Alpinus, also known as Alpine Balsam, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It is native to the mountainous regions of Europe, including the Alps and the Pyrenees. It is a low-growing perennial that reaches a maximum height of 10cm and has a spread of up to 30cm. It produces delicate flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white, which bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Erinus |
Appearance
Erinus Alpinus has small, oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color. The leaves are arranged in a rosette at the base of the plant. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and grow on spikes that rise above the foliage. They are usually pink, but can also be purple or white. Each flower has five petals, and the center of the flower is yellow. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer, and each flower lasts for several weeks.
Care Guide
Erinus Alpinus is an easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant Erinus Alpinus in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade, but it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
- Hardiness Zones: Erinus Alpinus is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erinus Alpinus is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it may be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use a slug bait or handpick them off the plant.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can be prevented by allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Erinus Alpinus is native to the mountainous regions of Europe, including the Alps and the Pyrenees. It grows in rocky, well-draining soil in areas of partial shade. It is commonly found in alpine meadows, rocky slopes, and along streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Erinus Alpinus a good plant for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, Erinus Alpinus is a great plant for beginner gardeners because it is easy to care for and does not require a lot of attention.
Q: Can Erinus Alpinus be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Erinus Alpinus can be grown in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and is watered regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize Erinus Alpinus?
A: Fertilize Erinus Alpinus once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best way to propagate Erinus Alpinus?
A: The best way to propagate Erinus Alpinus is by taking stem cuttings in the spring or fall and rooting them in moist soil.
Related Plants
- Erinus Ciliaris
- Erinus Mediterraneus
- Erinus Pinnatifidus
- Erinus Vesicarius
References
- “Erinus Alpinus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 26 Mar. 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281784&isprofile=0&basic=erinus%20alpinus>.
- “Erinus Alpinus.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 26 Mar. 2021. <http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:807550-1>.
- “Erinus Alpinus.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 26 Mar. 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/33274/erinus-alpinus/details>.
