Contents
Description
Halenia Deflexa, commonly known as Spurred Gentian, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Gentian family. It is native to the western United States and can be found in mountain meadows and rocky slopes at elevations of up to 3,500 meters. The plant grows up to 30 cm in height and produces deep blue, tubular flowers that are 1-2 cm long. Halenia Deflexa blooms from July to September and attracts pollinators such as butterflies and bees.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Gentianaceae |
| Genus | Halenia |
Appearance
Halenia Deflexa has an upright stem that is covered in small, pointed leaves. The leaves are arranged opposite each other and are up to 3 cm long. The flowers of Halenia Deflexa are deep blue and have a spur at the base. The petals are fused together to form a tube that is 1-2 cm long. The plant blooms from July to September and produces showy clusters of flowers at the top of the stem.
Care Guide
Water
Halenia Deflexa prefers well-drained soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. It is important to water the plant regularly during the growing season, especially during dry spells. However, overwatering can cause the roots to rot, so it is important to ensure that the soil is not saturated.
Fertilization
Halenia Deflexa does not require regular fertilization. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil
Halenia Deflexa prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Adding organic matter such as compost or peat moss can help improve soil quality and drainage.
Sunlight
Halenia Deflexa prefers full sun to partial shade. It is important to ensure that the plant receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Halenia Deflexa is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Halenia Deflexa is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Additionally, the plant may be damaged by slugs and snails.
Habitat
Halenia Deflexa is native to the western United States and can be found in mountain meadows and rocky slopes at elevations of up to 3,500 meters. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Halenia Deflexa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Halenia Deflexa can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Q: Does Halenia Deflexa require pruning?
A: No, Halenia Deflexa does not require pruning.
Q: How often should Halenia Deflexa be fertilized?
A: Halenia Deflexa does not require regular fertilization. Adding a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: Is Halenia Deflexa deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Halenia Deflexa is deer-resistant.
Related Plants
- Halenia elliptica
- Halenia nana
- Halenia parviflora
- Halenia weddelliana
References
- “Halenia Deflexa.” Wildflower.org, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=HADE.
- “Halenia Deflexa (Spurred Gentian).” Gardenia.net, www.gardenia.net/plant/halenia-deflexa.
- “Halenia Deflexa.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:114547-2.
