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Description
Heliophila Cornuta Var. Squamata is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. This plant is native to South Africa and is commonly known as the Blue Stars. It has a compact growth habit and grows up to 30cm tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Anthophyta |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Heliophila |
Appearance
The Blue Stars plant has small, star-shaped blue flowers that bloom from spring to summer. The flowers are arranged in loose clusters at the top of the stems. The leaves of this plant are narrow and lance-shaped, and they are a gray-green color. The stems are erect and branching, and they have a slightly hairy texture.
Care Guide
Water: Heliophila Cornuta Var. Squamata prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly, especially during periods of drought.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can cause the plant to become leggy.
Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage if necessary.
Sunlight: Heliophila Cornuta Var. Squamata prefers full sun to partial shade. Ensure the plant gets at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Blue Stars plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. To prevent these diseases, ensure good air circulation around the plant, and avoid getting water on the leaves.
Habitat
Heliophila Cornuta Var. Squamata is native to South Africa and is commonly found in rocky areas, along roadsides, and in grasslands. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Heliophila Cornuta Var. Squamata drought-tolerant?
A: While this plant can tolerate periods of drought, it prefers to be kept moist.
Q: Can Heliophila Cornuta Var. Squamata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container has drainage holes and the soil is well-draining.
Q: Does Heliophila Cornuta Var. Squamata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the blue flowers of this plant attract bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Heliophila Cornuta Var. Squamata be grown as an annual?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown as an annual in cooler climates where it is not hardy.
Related Plants
- Heliophila Argyrophylla
- Heliophila Coronopifolia
- Heliophila Longifolia
References
- “Heliophila Cornuta.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantgh/helcornuta.htm.
- “Heliophila Cornuta.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287912&isprofile=0.
- “Heliophila Cornuta.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/120291/Heliophila-cornuta/Details.
