Illecebrum

Description

Illecebrum is a genus of flowering plants in the family Caryophyllaceae. It comprises approximately 20 species of perennial herbs, native to Europe and Asia. Most Illecebrum species are small, mat-forming plants with green leaves and small white or pink flowers. They are commonly known as ‘knawels’ or ‘knappweeds’.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Caryophyllales
Family	Caryophyllaceae
Genus	Illecebrum

Appearance

Illecebrum species are small, mat-forming plants with green leaves and small white or pink flowers. The leaves are opposite, simple, and usually have no petiole. The flowers are small, with five petals and five sepals. They bloom from early summer to early fall. The fruit is a capsule that contains many small seeds.

Care Guide

Water

Illecebrum plants prefer moist, well-drained soil. They should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought.

Fertilization

Illecebrum plants do not require much fertilization. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied once a year in the spring.

Soil

Illecebrum plants prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil. They can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but do not grow well in heavy clay soil.

Sunlight

Illecebrum plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade, but may not flower as well.

Hardiness Zones

Illecebrum plants are hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Illecebrum plants are generally not susceptible to pests or diseases. However, they may be occasionally affected by aphids, spider mites, or powdery mildew.

Habitat

Illecebrum species are native to Europe and Asia. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including open grasslands, rocky slopes, and forests.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Illecebrum plants be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Illecebrum plants can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining soil mix and make sure the container has drainage holes.

Q: How often should Illecebrum plants be fertilized?

A: Illecebrum plants only need to be fertilized once a year, in the spring.

Q: Do Illecebrum plants attract pollinators?

A: Yes, Illecebrum plants attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Q: Can Illecebrum plants be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes, Illecebrum plants can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or summer.

Related Plants

• Spergula
• Cerastium
• Stellaria
• Paronychia

References

• “Illecebrum”. Flora of China. Missouri Botanical Garden Press. Retrieved 22 October 2018.
• “Illecebrum”. Flora Europaea. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Retrieved 22 October 2018.
• “Illecebrum”. The Plant List. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved 22 October 2018.