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Description
Lessertia Annularis, commonly known as ring-leaved everlasting pea, is a shrub plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is commonly found in the Cape Floristic Region. This plant is also known as “Boesman-erwtjie” and “Gewone erwtjie” in Afrikaans. It can grow up to 2 meters in height and has a spreading habit. The flowers are pink or purple and bloom from spring to summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lessertia |
Appearance
The ring-leaved everlasting pea has dark green, oval-shaped leaves that are arranged alternately on the stem. The leaves are approximately 3-7 cm long and have a slightly hairy texture. The plant produces a profusion of pink or purple flowers that are arranged in clusters along the stem. The flowers are approximately 1.5-2 cm in diameter and have a distinctive pea-like shape. The fruit is a pod that is approximately 3-4 cm long and contains several seeds.
Care Guide
The ring-leaved everlasting pea is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. However, it is important to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied once a year in the spring to promote growth and flowering.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The ring-leaved everlasting pea is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or grown in poorly-drained soil. It may also be attacked by spider mites or aphids, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The ring-leaved everlasting pea is native to South Africa and is commonly found in the Cape Floristic Region. It grows in well-drained, sandy soils in full sunlight or partial shade. It is tolerant of drought and can survive in areas with low rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the ring-leaved everlasting pea a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, the ring-leaved everlasting pea is a hardy plant that requires minimal care and is therefore a good choice for beginners.
Q: Can the ring-leaved everlasting pea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the ring-leaved everlasting pea can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does the ring-leaved everlasting pea attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the ring-leaved everlasting pea attracts bees and butterflies with its colorful flowers.
Q: Can the ring-leaved everlasting pea be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the ring-leaved everlasting pea can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.
Related Plants
- Lessertia Frutescens
- Lessertia Montana
- Lessertia Rigida
References
- “Lessertia annularis (L.) Kuntze.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 28 September 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:506747-1
- “Lessertia annularis.” South African National Biodiversity Institute. Accessed 28 September 2021. https://www.sanbi.org/creature/lessertia-annularis/
- “Lessertia annularis.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed 28 September 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/lessertia-annularis
