Contents
Description
Galphimia Gracilis is a beautiful flowering plant that is native to Mexico and Central America. It is also known as Thryallis, Rain of Gold or Golden Shower due to its yellow flowers. This plant belongs to the Malpighiaceae family, and it is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 8 feet tall and 6 feet wide. Galphimia Gracilis is a popular choice among gardeners because of its low maintenance requirements and long blooming season.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Malpighiaceae |
| Genus | Galphimia |
Appearance
Galphimia Gracilis has bright green leaves that are lance-shaped and grow up to 3 inches long. Its flowers are bright yellow and have five petals, each measuring around 1 inch in diameter. The plant blooms from spring to fall, and its flowers are followed by small, round fruit that contains seeds. The bark of Galphimia Gracilis is grayish-brown and smooth.
Care Guide
Water: Galphimia Gracilis requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Soil: Galphimia Gracilis prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH level should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sunlight: This plant requires full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may result in fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Galphimia Gracilis can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Galphimia Gracilis is generally a pest and disease-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation and treat it with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Galphimia Gracilis is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in dry, rocky soils and scrublands. It can also be found in open woodlands and on roadsides. This plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in areas with low rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Does Galphimia Gracilis require pruning?
A: Yes, Galphimia Gracilis benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and promote bushier growth. Prune the plant in the spring before new growth appears.
Q: Can Galphimia Gracilis grow in containers?
A: Yes, Galphimia Gracilis can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and make sure the container has drainage holes. Water the plant regularly, and fertilize it once a month during the growing season.
Q: How often should I fertilize Galphimia Gracilis?
A: Fertilize Galphimia Gracilis once a year in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Q: Can Galphimia Gracilis grow in cold climates?
A: No, Galphimia Gracilis is not cold hardy and cannot survive in areas with freezing temperatures.
Related Plants
- Galphimia Glauca
- Galphimia Heterophylla
- Galphimia Pilosa
- Galphimia Pinnatifolia
References
- “Galphimia Gracilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 24 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=260510&isprofile=0&=&=&=
- “Thryallis (Galphimia Gracilis).” University of Florida. Accessed 24 May 2021. <https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/thryallis.html
- “Galphimia Gracilis (Thryallis).” North Carolina State University. Accessed 24 May 2021. <https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/galphimia-gracilis/
