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Description
Micranthes Gormanii, also known as Gorman’s saxifrage, is a beautiful flowering plant native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America. It is a perennial herb that grows in moist, rocky habitats such as alpine meadows, talus slopes, and rock outcrops. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that bloom from May to August, and can grow up to 10 cm in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Micranthes |
Appearance
Micranthes Gormanii has a rosette of basal leaves that are oval-shaped and have toothed edges. The leaves are usually 1-5 cm long and 0.5-2 cm wide. The stem of the plant is thin and wiry, and can be up to 10 cm tall. The flowers are small, white or pink, and have five petals. The flowers are clustered at the top of the stem and can bloom from May to August. The plant also produces small, green seed capsules that contain tiny black seeds.
Care Guide
Micranthes Gormanii is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help your plant thrive:
Water: Micranthes Gormanii prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. However, be careful not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Micranthes Gormanii does not require fertilizer but can benefit from a light application of organic fertilizer in the spring.
Soil: Micranthes Gormanii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Sunlight: Micranthes Gormanii prefers partial shade or full sun in cooler climates. In warmer climates, it should be grown in partial shade to avoid sunburn.
Hardiness Zones: Micranthes Gormanii is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Micranthes Gormanii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It can also be affected by powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions. To prevent these issues, make sure to water the plant sparingly and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Micranthes Gormanii is native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America, including Alaska, British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon. It grows in moist, rocky habitats such as alpine meadows, talus slopes, and rock outcrops. The plant can also be found in subalpine forests and wetlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Micranthes Gormanii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Micranthes Gormanii can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant and has good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize Micranthes Gormanii?
A: Micranthes Gormanii does not require fertilizer but can benefit from a light application of organic fertilizer in the spring.
Q: Is Micranthes Gormanii a good plant for rock gardens?
A: Yes, Micranthes Gormanii is a great plant for rock gardens as it prefers rocky habitats and can tolerate dry conditions.
Q: Can Micranthes Gormanii be propagated by division?
A: Yes, Micranthes Gormanii can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Micranthes Gormanii:
- Micranthes Odontoloma
- Micranthes Integrifolia
- Micranthes Ferruginea
- Micranthes Nivalis
References
- Flora of North America: Micranthes Gormanii
- Washington Native Plant Society: Micranthes Gormanii
- Oregon Flora Project: Micranthes Gormanii
