Kelleria Lyallii

Description

Kelleria Lyallii is a rare and unique plant species that belongs to the family Saxifragaceae. It is a small, herbaceous plant that grows up to 8 cm in height. This plant can be found in rocky and moist areas, particularly in the alpine and subalpine regions of North America. It is an endangered species due to habitat loss and over-collection.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Saxifragales
Family	Saxifragaceae
Genus	Kelleria

Appearance

Kelleria Lyallii has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other plant species. It has small, basal leaves that are spoon-shaped and hairy. The leaves are green and have a slightly wavy margin. The plant’s stem is thin and hairy, and it produces small, white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers have five petals and are arranged in a loose cluster.

Care Guide

Kelleria Lyallii requires specific care to thrive in its natural habitat. Here are some important care tips for this plant:

1. Water: This plant needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. However, it is important not to overwater it as it can lead to root rot.
2. Fertilization: Kelleria Lyallii does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer once a year is sufficient.
3. Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
4. Sunlight: Kelleria Lyallii thrives in partial shade to full sun. However, it requires protection from strong winds and intense sunlight.
5. Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Kelleria Lyallii is susceptible to several pests and diseases. Here are some common problems that affect this plant:

• Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and distortion of the leaves.
• Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of the plant.
• Root rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause white, powdery spots on the leaves and stems.

Habitat

Kelleria Lyallii is native to rocky and moist areas in the alpine and subalpine regions of North America. It can be found in mountainous areas of British Columbia, Alberta, and Montana. The plant prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun.

Question and Answer

Q1: Is Kelleria Lyallii a rare plant species?
A1: Yes, Kelleria Lyallii is an endangered species due to habitat loss and over-collection.Q2: What is the ideal soil pH for this plant?
A2: Kelleria Lyallii can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.Q3: What are the common pests and diseases that affect this plant?
A3: Kelleria Lyallii is susceptible to spider mites, slugs and snails, root rot, and powdery mildew.Q4: Where can Kelleria Lyallii be found?
A4: This plant can be found in mountainous areas of British Columbia, Alberta, and Montana.

Related Plants

Here are some related plant species to Kelleria Lyallii:

• Saxifraga
• Heuchera
• Tiarella
• Astilbe

References

1. “Kelleria lyallii.” Plants of the World Online, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, 2021, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:145928-2. Accessed 12 Oct. 2021.
2. “Kelleria lyallii.” USDA Plants Database, United States Department of Agriculture, plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=KELY. Accessed 12 Oct. 2021.
3. “Kelleria lyallii.” Montana Field Guide, Montana Natural Heritage Program and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, fieldguide.mt.gov/species/22897. Accessed 12 Oct. 2021.