Contents
Description
Llavea is a genus of flowering plants in the family Apiaceae, native to Mexico and Guatemala. It is a small genus with only three known species, Llavea cordifolia, Llavea macrocarpa, and Llavea mexicana. These plants are generally small, with a rosette of basal leaves and a single stem that terminates in a large umbel of small white or pink flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Llavea |
Appearance
Llavea plants are small, with a rosette of basal leaves and a single stem that grows up to 60 cm tall. The leaves are pinnate, with toothed leaflets, and are arranged in a basal rosette. The stem terminates in a large, flat-topped umbel of small white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers are followed by small, oval-shaped fruits that are about 5 mm long.
Care Guide
Water
Llavea plants prefer to be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water them regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter months.
Fertilization
Fertilize Llavea plants with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil
Llavea plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal.
Sunlight
Llavea plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones
Llavea plants are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Llavea plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. Keep an eye out for these pests and treat them promptly with an appropriate insecticide.
Habitat
Llavea plants are native to Mexico and Guatemala, where they grow in rocky soils in dry, arid regions. They are often found growing in rocky outcrops, cliffs, and canyons.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Llavea plants easy to care for?
A: Yes, Llavea plants are relatively easy to care for. They prefer well-draining soil, bright indirect sunlight, and regular watering.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Llavea plants?
A: Llavea plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they may be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for growing Llavea plants?
A: Llavea plants prefer warm temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C).
Q: How often should I fertilize Llavea plants?
A: Fertilize Llavea plants with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Apiaceae family include parsley, cilantro, dill, fennel, and carrots.
References
- “Llavea.” World Flora Online, www.worldfloraonline.org/taxon/wfo-4000034271. Accessed 20 August 2021.
- “Llavea.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:40036-1. Accessed 20 August 2021.
- “Llavea.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Apiaceae/Llavea/. Accessed 20 August 2021.
