Contents
Description
Lotononis Tenella, also known as the Low-Growing Clover-Like Plant, is a member of the Fabaceae family. It is a small herbaceous plant native to South Africa that grows up to 10 centimeters in height. It has a prostrate growth habit, forming a dense mat of leaves and stems that spreads several meters wide. This plant is highly valued for its ornamental value, and it is often used as ground cover in gardens and landscaping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lotononis |
Appearance
Lotononis Tenella has trifoliate leaves, each leaflet is oval to oblong in shape and has a glossy green color. The flowers of this plant are small and yellow, and they grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The blooming period of Lotononis Tenella is from summer to fall. The fruit of this plant is a pod, which is 2.5 to 3 millimeters in length.
Care Guide
Lotononis Tenella requires moderate watering, and it should be watered when the soil is dry. It prefers well-draining soil, and it can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil. Fertilization is recommended during the growing season, and it should be done with a balanced fertilizer. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lotononis Tenella is generally free from pests and diseases, but it can be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, and this can be prevented by allowing the soil to dry out between watering.
Habitat
Lotononis Tenella is native to South Africa and is found in coastal areas, rocky outcrops, and sand dunes. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lotononis Tenella an invasive species?
A: No, Lotononis Tenella is not considered an invasive species.
Q: How often should I fertilize Lotononis Tenella?
A: Fertilization is recommended during the growing season, and it should be done with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Lotononis Tenella tolerate drought?
A: Lotononis Tenella can tolerate some drought, but it prefers moderate watering.
Q: What is the blooming period of Lotononis Tenella?
A: The blooming period of Lotononis Tenella is from summer to fall.
Related Plants
- Lotononis hirsuta
- Lotononis bainesii
- Lotononis corymbosa
References
- “Lotononis Tenella.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/lototenella.htm.
- “Lotononis Tenella.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283028.
- “Lotononis Tenella.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=513015.
