Hermannia Flammula

Description

Hermannia Flammula, also known as the Red Hermannia, is a small, perennial shrub that belongs to the Sterculiaceae family. It is native to South Africa and can be found growing in sandy soils in the Western and Northern Cape provinces. This plant is known for its beautiful, bright red flowers that bloom from late winter to early summer.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Hermannia Flammula typically grows up to 60 cm tall and 45 cm wide. It has small, green, oval-shaped leaves that are about 1 cm long. The plant produces a profusion of bright red flowers that are about 2 cm in diameter. The flowers have five petals and a yellow center. The blooming period lasts from late winter to early summer, and the plant may produce more than one flush of flowers during this time.

Care Guide

Water

Hermannia Flammula prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering in the winter when the plant is dormant.

Fertilization

Fertilize Hermannia Flammula with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Soil

This plant prefers sandy, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend heavy clay soil with sand and organic matter to improve drainage.

Sunlight

Hermannia Flammula prefers full sun or partial shade.

Hardiness Zones

This plant is hardy to USDA zones 8b to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Hermannia Flammula is generally a hardy plant that is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly draining soil.

Habitat

Hermannia Flammula is native to South Africa and can be found growing in sandy soils in the Western and Northern Cape provinces. It is commonly found growing in coastal fynbos and renosterveld vegetation.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Hermannia Flammula a drought-tolerant plant?

A: While Hermannia Flammula can tolerate some drought, it prefers to be kept moist and may not thrive in extremely dry conditions.

Q: How often should I fertilize Hermannia Flammula?

A: Fertilize this plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Q: What is the blooming period for Hermannia Flammula?

A: The blooming period for this plant lasts from late winter to early summer.

Q: Where is Hermannia Flammula native to?

A: Hermannia Flammula is native to South Africa.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants in the Sterculiaceae family:

• Hermannia incana
• Hermannia verticillata
• Theobroma cacao
• Sterculia foetida

References

• “Hermannia flammula.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantgh/hermanniaflamm.htm.
• “Hermannia.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 7 Nov. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermannia.