Contents
Description
Lessertia Diffusa is a hardy, evergreen shrub native to southern Africa. It goes by many names, including Cancer Bush, Kankerbossie, and Sutherlandia Frutescens. It can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and has a spread of about 1 meter. The plant has a woody stem and small, silver-grey leaves that are silky to the touch. The flowers are red-orange in color and bloom from early summer to early fall. The plant is known for its medicinal properties and has been traditionally used to treat a variety of ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Lessertia |
Appearance
Lessertia Diffusa has small, silver-grey leaves that are silky to the touch. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs along the stem and are about 1-2 cm long. The plant has a woody stem and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The flowers are red-orange in color and bloom from early summer to early fall. The plant has a bushy, rounded shape and can spread up to 1 meter.
Care Guide
Lessertia Diffusa is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help your plant thrive:- Water: Water your plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate periods of drought.- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Plant your Lessertia Diffusa in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Lessertia Diffusa is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lessertia Diffusa is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. The plant can also be affected by spider mites and thrips. To prevent these pests, keep the plant well-watered and spray it with insecticidal soap if necessary.
Habitat
Lessertia Diffusa is native to southern Africa and is found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and rocky outcrops. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate periods of drought and is often used in landscaping and gardening.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lessertia Diffusa be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Lessertia Diffusa can be grown in a container as long as it has well-drained soil and is watered regularly.
Q: Is Lessertia Diffusa poisonous?
A: No, Lessertia Diffusa is not poisonous and is safe to handle.
Q: Can Lessertia Diffusa be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Lessertia Diffusa can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.
Q: How often should Lessertia Diffusa be pruned?
A: Lessertia Diffusa should be pruned in the late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size.
Related Plants
– Lessertia Montana- Lessertia Frutescens- Lessertia Geminiflora
References
– “Sutherlandia frutescens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a862- “Lessertia Diffusa.” PlantZAfrica. http://pza.sanbi.org/lessertia-diffusa
