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Description
Grielum Grandiflorum, also known as African daisy, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Aizoaceae. It is native to South Africa and is a popular garden plant due to its bright yellow flowers that bloom in spring and summer. The plant is a low-growing, spreading perennial that can grow up to 30 cm in height and 60 cm in width. It is commonly used as a ground cover and can also be grown in pots.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Genus | Grielum |
Appearance
The Grielum Grandiflorum plant has small, succulent leaves that are light green in color. The leaves are arranged opposite each other on the stem and are slightly hairy. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that are daisy-like in appearance and have a diameter of around 3 cm. The flowers bloom in spring and summer and are followed by small, hairy capsules that contain the plant’s seeds. The plant is a low-growing, spreading perennial that can form a dense mat of foliage.
Care Guide
Water: Grielum Grandiflorum plants require moderate watering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate sandy soils but does not do well in heavy clay soils.Sunlight: Grielum Grandiflorum plants require full sun to thrive. They can tolerate partial shade but will produce fewer flowers.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Grielum Grandiflorum plants are relatively pest and disease resistant. However, they can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-draining. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, causing damage to the leaves and flowers. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.
Habitat
Grielum Grandiflorum is native to South Africa and can be found growing in sandy soils in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces. The plant is adapted to the dry, Mediterranean climate of the region and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Grielum Grandiflorum be grown in pots?
A: Yes, Grielum Grandiflorum can be grown in pots as long as the pot has good drainage and the plant is watered regularly.Q: How often should I water my Grielum Grandiflorum plant?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This will usually be around once a week.Q: What is the best time to plant Grielum Grandiflorum?
A: The best time to plant Grielum Grandiflorum is in spring, after the last frost has passed.Q: How long do Grielum Grandiflorum flowers last?
A: Grielum Grandiflorum flowers typically last for around 6-8 weeks.
Related Plants
- Grielum Humifusum
- Grielum Villosissimum
- Grielum Parviflorum
References
- “Grielum Grandiflorum.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantefg/grielumgrandifl.htm.
- “Grielum Grandiflorum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b760.
- “African Daisy (Grielum Grandiflorum).” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/african-daisy-grielum-grandiflorum.
