Melhania Prostrata
Contents
Description
Melhania Prostrata, also known as creeping melhania, is a low-growing perennial herb that belongs to the Malvaceae family. It is native to South Africa but has now spread to other parts of the world, including Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. The plant grows up to 20 centimeters in height and has a sprawling habit that can spread up to 1 meter in diameter. It produces small, yellow flowers that bloom from spring to summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Melhania |
| Species | Prostrata |
Appearance
Melhania Prostrata has a unique appearance that makes it stand out among other plants. It has small, oval-shaped leaves that are bright green in color and have a slightly fuzzy texture. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and have short petioles. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that are about 1 centimeter in diameter and have five petals. These flowers bloom from spring to summer and are followed by small, rounded fruit that contain seeds. The plant has a sprawling habit and can spread up to 1 meter in diameter.
Care Guide
Melhania Prostrata is relatively easy to care for and does well in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and should be watered when the top of the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but you can feed it with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss is ideal.- Sunlight: The plant does well in full sun to partial shade. However, it should be protected from strong winds and frost.- Hardiness Zones: Melhania Prostrata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Melhania Prostrata is not usually affected by serious pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and insecticidal soap. The plant can also be affected by root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Melhania Prostrata is native to South Africa and is found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, forests, and rocky outcrops. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures and rainfall levels. It has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Australia, New Zealand, and the United States.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Melhania Prostrata an invasive species?
A: While Melhania Prostrata is not usually considered an invasive species, it can spread rapidly in certain conditions and should be monitored in areas where it has been introduced.
Q: Can Melhania Prostrata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Melhania Prostrata can be grown indoors in a sunny spot with well-draining soil.
Q: Does Melhania Prostrata attract bees?
A: Yes, Melhania Prostrata produces small, yellow flowers that are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Q: Can Melhania Prostrata be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Melhania Prostrata can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer. The cuttings should be placed in well-draining soil and kept moist until they root.
Related Plants
– Melhania Incana- Melhania Villosa- Melhania Dregeana- Melhania Juncea
References
– “Melhania Prostrata.” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 24 Feb. 2021.- “Melhania Prostrata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 24 Feb. 2021.- “Creeping Melhania.” Gardening Know How. Gardening Know How, n.d. Web. 24 Feb. 2021.
