Heliophila Pendula

Description

Heliophila Pendula is a flowering plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the Brassicaceae family and is also known as the “Blue Stars” due to its blue-colored flowers. This plant typically grows up to 12 inches in height and is an annual or biennial. It has a delicate appearance and is a favorite among gardeners due to its vibrant blue flowers.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Heliophila Pendula has thin and delicate stems with small, lance-shaped leaves. The leaves grow up to 2 inches long and are a pale green color. The plant produces small, blue, star-shaped flowers that grow on long stems. The flowers typically bloom from late spring to early summer and attract bees and butterflies to the garden. Heliophila Pendula is a relatively small plant, reaching a maximum height of 12 inches and a width of 6 inches.

Care Guide

Heliophila Pendula is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. The plant should be watered regularly, but not over-watered as this can lead to root rot. Fertilizer should be applied every two weeks during the growing season. Heliophila Pendula requires full sun to thrive and should be planted in a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Heliophila Pendula is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases. Aphids, thrips, and spider mites can all be problematic for this plant. Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of infestation and treating with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent these pests from causing significant damage. Powdery mildew is a common disease that affects Heliophila Pendula. This can be prevented by ensuring adequate air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.

Habitat

Heliophila Pendula is native to South Africa and is typically found in rocky, sandy soil in coastal regions. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and is a popular choice for rock gardens, borders, and containers.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Heliophila Pendula be grown indoors?

A: No, Heliophila Pendula requires full sun to thrive and should be planted outdoors in a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.

Q: How often should Heliophila Pendula be fertilized?

A: Heliophila Pendula should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season.

Q: Is Heliophila Pendula a perennial or an annual?

A: Heliophila Pendula can be either an annual or a biennial, depending on the growing conditions.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Heliophila Pendula?

A: Heliophila Pendula is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Related Plants

• Heliophila Longifolia
• Heliophila Argyrophylla
• Heliophila Coronopifolia
• Heliophila Multiflora

References

• “Heliophila Pendula.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280074&isprofile=0&>.
• “Heliophila Pendula.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14252/Heliophila-pendula/Details>.
• “Heliophila Pendula.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed August 2021. <http://pza.sanbi.org/heliophila-pendula>.