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Description
Glandora Prostrata Heavenly Blue is a perennial plant that belongs to the Campanulaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is known for its stunning blue flowers that bloom in the summer. The plant is also commonly known as the Blue Star Creeper. It can grow up to 10-15 cm in height and can spread up to 30-60 cm in width. The plant has a mat-forming habit and can be used as a ground cover or in containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Glandora |
Appearance
Glandora Prostrata Heavenly Blue has small, glossy green leaves that are oblong in shape and grow in opposite pairs along the stems. The leaves are about 1-2 cm long and 0.5-1 cm wide. The plant produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. The flowers are a vibrant shade of blue and have a white center. They bloom in the summer and attract bees and butterflies. Glandora Prostrata Heavenly Blue has a low-growing habit and forms a dense mat.
Care Guide
Glandora Prostrata Heavenly Blue is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- 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 too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Glandora Prostrata Heavenly Blue is relatively pest-free, but it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:- Root rot: This can be caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of the plant. To control slugs and snails, handpick them off the plant or use a slug bait.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Glandora Prostrata Heavenly Blue is native to South Africa and is found in grasslands and savannas. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought once established.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Glandora Prostrata Heavenly Blue be grown indoors?
A: It is possible to grow Glandora Prostrata Heavenly Blue indoors as long as it receives adequate sunlight.
Q: Does Glandora Prostrata Heavenly Blue attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Glandora Prostrata Heavenly Blue be used as a ground cover?
A: Yes, the plant has a mat-forming habit and can be used as a ground cover.
Q: How often should Glandora Prostrata Heavenly Blue be fertilized?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
– Glandora Diffusa- Glandora Robusta- Glandora Epiphytica
References
– “Glandora Prostrata.” Plantzafrica.com, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantefg/glandprostr.htm.- “Glandora Prostrata Heavenly Blue.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282865.
