Contents
Description
Globularia Alypum, also known as Sweet Globularia or Blue Buttons, is a small perennial plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found in Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Southern Europe. The plant has been used for medicinal purposes for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. It is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and care for.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Globularia |
Appearance
Globularia Alypum is a small, evergreen shrub that grows up to 50 cm in height and 80 cm in width. The leaves are small, lance-shaped, and dark green in color. The flowers are small and globular, and range in color from blue to purple. They bloom in early summer and attract bees and butterflies. The plant produces small, oval-shaped fruits that contain several seeds.
Care Guide
Globularia Alypum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but make sure the soil is well-drained. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant the Globularia Alypum in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may affect its growth and flowering.
- Hardiness Zones: Globularia Alypum is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Globularia Alypum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and powdery mildew. Here are some tips on how to prevent and treat these common pests and diseases:
- Spider Mites: Spider mites can be prevented by keeping the plant well-watered and by misting it regularly. If the plant is already infested, you can treat it with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale Insects: Scale insects can be prevented by keeping the plant well-watered and by removing any infected leaves or branches. If the plant is already infested, you can treat it with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew can be prevented by keeping the plant well-ventilated and by avoiding overhead watering. If the plant is already infected, you can treat it with a fungicide spray.
Habitat
Globularia Alypum is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found in Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Southern Europe. It grows in dry, rocky areas and prefers well-drained soil. The plant is adapted to hot and dry climates and can tolerate drought and high temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Globularia Alypum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Globularia Alypum can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a sunny and well-ventilated area.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Globularia Alypum?
A: You should fertilize your Globularia Alypum once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Globularia Alypum be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Globularia Alypum can be propagated from cuttings taken in the summer.
Q: Is Globularia Alypum toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that Globularia Alypum is toxic to pets, but it is always advisable to keep pets away from plants that are not part of their diet.
Related Plants
- Globularia Cordifolia
- Globularia Vulgaris
- Globularia Trichosantha
- Globularia Alypum Var. Alypum
References
- “Globularia Alypum – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d580.
- “Globularia Alypum – Blue Buttons.” Gardening Know How, 31 Mar. 2021, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/sweet-globularia/growing-sweet-globularia.htm.
- “Globularia Alypum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/101675/Globularia-alypum/Details.
