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Description
Lotononis Pungens, commonly known as the Cape broom pea, is a native South African perennial plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is highly attractive to bees and butterflies and can be grown in any garden with well-draining soil. The plant grows up to 1 meter tall and 1.5 meters wide, with a sprawling habit and soft, hairy leaves. Its yellow flowers are pea-like and bloom from late winter to early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lotononis |
Appearance
The Lotononis Pungens plant has a sprawling habit and soft, hairy leaves. It can grow up to 1 meter tall and 1.5 meters wide. The yellow flowers are pea-like and bloom from late winter to early spring. The plant’s seeds are small and oval-shaped, with a smooth surface. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet being elliptical and up to 2 cm long.
Care Guide
Lotononis Pungens is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. It thrives in well-draining soil and full sunlight. The plant can tolerate some shade but will not bloom as well. Water the plant regularly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lotononis Pungens is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be attacked by spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if the soil is waterlogged. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent this.
Habitat
Lotononis Pungens is native to South Africa and is commonly found in the Cape Floristic Region. It grows in well-draining soil in full sunlight and can be found in grasslands, savannas, and rocky outcrops.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lotononis Pungens be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lotononis Pungens can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s sprawling habit.
Q: Is Lotononis Pungens frost-tolerant?
A: No, Lotononis Pungens is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from frost in colder climates.
Q: Can Lotononis Pungens be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Lotononis Pungens can be propagated from cuttings taken in early spring. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil.
Q: Does Lotononis Pungens attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Lotononis Pungens is highly attractive to bees and butterflies and is a great plant to include in a pollinator garden.
Related Plants
- Lotononis bainesii
- Lotononis corymbosa
- Lotononis saxatilis
References
- “Lotononis Pungens.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/lotononispung.htm.
- “Lotononis Pungens.” Gardening in South Africa, https://www.gardeninginsouthafrica.co.za/indigenous-plant-database/fabaceae/1188-lotononis-pungens.
