Contents
Description
Frankenia is a small shrub that belongs to the Frankeniaceae family. This plant is native to coastal areas in Europe, Africa, and Asia. It is an evergreen plant that grows up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Frankenia has small, narrow leaves that are about 1 inch long, and it produces pink or white flowers that bloom from May to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Frankeniaceae |
| Genus | Frankenia |
Appearance
Frankenia has a compact, bushy growth habit and produces small, needle-like leaves that are green-gray in color. The leaves grow in pairs along the stems and are less than 1 inch long. The plant blooms from May to August, producing small, pink or white flowers that are about 1/4 inch in diameter. The flowers are clustered at the end of the stems and are usually surrounded by small, leaf-like bracts.
Care Guide
Water: Frankenia prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate wet feet. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.Fertilization: Frankenia does not require much fertilizer. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring.Soil: Frankenia prefers well-drained, sandy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.Sunlight: Frankenia prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Frankenia is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Frankenia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Spider mites and whiteflies may infest the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Frankenia is native to coastal areas in Europe, Africa, and Asia. It grows in sandy soil and is often found near saltwater.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Frankenia a good plant for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, Frankenia is an excellent plant for coastal gardens because it is adapted to sandy, saltwater environments.
Q: Can Frankenia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Frankenia can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: Does Frankenia require pruning?
A: Frankenia does not require pruning, but it can be pruned in the fall to maintain its shape.
Q: Is Frankenia a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, Frankenia is drought-tolerant once established.
Related Plants
- Frankenia grandifolia
- Frankenia laevis
- Frankenia salina
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Frankenia
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources: Frankenia
- North Carolina State University: Frankenia
