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Description
Galium Microphyllum is a small, perennial plant native to California and Nevada in the United States. It belongs to the Rubiaceae family, which is a large family of flowering plants. The plant has a woody stem that grows up to 30 cm tall and is covered with fine hairs. The leaves are narrow and needle-like, measuring up to 1 cm in length. The plant produces small, white flowers in clusters at the end of the stems during the early summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Galium |
Appearance
Galium Microphyllum is a small, but attractive plant that grows in clumps. The stems are woody and covered with fine hairs, while the leaves are narrow and needle-like, measuring up to 1 cm in length. The plant produces small, white flowers in clusters at the end of the stems during the early summer months. The flowers have four petals and are around 2-3 mm in diameter. The plant has a delicate appearance and is perfect for rock gardens, borders or as a groundcover.
Care Guide
Galium Microphyllum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It requires well-draining soil, regular watering, and full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it does not like wet or poorly drained soils. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can be beneficial. Galium Microphyllum is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Galium Microphyllum is not prone to any serious pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. It can also be affected by spider mites and aphids, but these pests can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Galium Microphyllum is native to California and Nevada in the United States. It is typically found in rocky, dry areas, such as chaparral, sagebrush, and pinyon-juniper woodlands. It can also be found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and abandoned fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Galium Microphyllum tolerate drought?
A: Yes, it can tolerate drought, but it prefers regular watering.
Q: Can Galium Microphyllum grow in containers?
A: Yes, it can grow in containers, but it requires well-draining soil and regular watering.
Q: Does Galium Microphyllum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Galium Microphyllum be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, it can be propagated by stem cuttings in the summer.
Related Plants
- Galium aparine
- Galium odoratum
- Galium verum
References
- “Galium Microphyllum.” Calflora. Retrieved from https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=3589
- “Galium Microphyllum.” Las Pilitas Nursery. Retrieved from https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/1302–galium-microphyllum
- “Galium Microphyllum.” USDA Plants Database. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=GAMI5
