Contents
Description
Heliophila Carnosa is a perennial plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is commonly known as the waxflower or blue marguerite. The plant is a low-growing subshrub that can reach up to 20 inches in height and spread up to 24 inches in width. The leaves are glossy, oval-shaped, and have a waxy texture. The flowers are small, bluish-purple or white, and bloom in the spring and summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Heliophila |
Appearance
Heliophila Carnosa has a bushy growth habit, with stems that are woody at the base and green towards the top. The leaves are oval-shaped, about 1 inch long, and have a waxy texture. The flowers are small, bluish-purple, or white, and bloom in clusters. They have four petals that form a cross shape and are about 0.5 inches in diameter. The plant can grow up to 20 inches in height and spread up to 24 inches in width.
Care Guide
Water: Heliophila Carnosa needs regular watering, especially during the summer months. It prefers moist but well-drained soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks.
Soil: Heliophila Carnosa prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of pH levels but prefers slightly acidic soil.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade to thrive. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as much.
Hardiness Zones: Heliophila Carnosa is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Heliophila Carnosa is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Aphids and whiteflies may also infest the plant, but they can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Heliophila Carnosa is native to South Africa and is commonly found in rocky areas and on hillsides. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of pH levels. The plant is often used in rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Heliophila Carnosa a perennial plant?
A: Yes, Heliophila Carnosa is a perennial plant.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Heliophila Carnosa?
A: Heliophila Carnosa is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Q: How often should I water Heliophila Carnosa?
A: Heliophila Carnosa needs regular watering, especially during the summer months. It prefers moist but well-drained soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: What is the best soil type for Heliophila Carnosa?
A: Heliophila Carnosa prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of pH levels but prefers slightly acidic soil.
Related Plants
- Heliophila Coronopifolia
- Heliophila Longifolia
- Heliophila Pendula
- Heliophila Prionotes
References
- “Heliophila Carnosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278712&isprofile=0&basic=Heliophila%20carnosa
- “Heliophila Carnosa.” PlantZAfrica. http://pza.sanbi.org/heliophila-carnosa
- “Heliophila Carnosa.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10517/heliophila-carnosa/details
