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Description
Indigofera Cytisoides, also known as the False Broom, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is commonly found in dry, rocky areas. The plant can grow up to 2 meters tall and has a sprawling, bushy habit. It produces masses of pink, pea-like flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Indigofera |
Appearance
The False Broom has a sprawling, bushy habit and can grow up to 2 meters tall. Its leaves are small, compound, and dark green in color. The plant produces masses of pink, pea-like flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by small, brown pods that contain seeds.
Care Guide
The False Broom is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The plant requires moderate watering during the growing season. Make sure the soil is well-drained and does not become waterlogged.
- Fertilization: The False Broom does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil. Make sure the soil pH is between 6.0 and 7.0.
- Sunlight: The False Broom prefers full sun to partial shade. Make sure the plant receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The False Broom is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-drained and does not become waterlogged.
Habitat
The False Broom is native to South Africa and is commonly found in dry, rocky areas. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the False Broom a low-maintenance plant?
A: Yes, the False Broom is a hardy plant that requires minimal care.
Q: What is the best soil pH for the False Broom?
A: The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Q: What is the blooming season for the False Broom?
A: The plant produces masses of pink, pea-like flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the False Broom?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Related Plants
- Indigofera Tinctoria
- Indigofera Suffruticosa
- Indigofera Heterantha
- Indigofera Australis
References
- “Indigofera Cytisoides.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantij/indigocyti.htm.
- “Indigofera Cytisoides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c310.
- “False Broom (Indigofera Cytisoides).” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/false-broom/false-broom-plant.htm.
