Contents
Description
Micranthes Occidentalis, also known as Western Saxifrage, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found growing in moist and rocky habitats, such as alpine and subalpine meadows, talus slopes, and rocky outcrops.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Micranthes |
Appearance
The Micranthes Occidentalis plant has a rosette of basal leaves that are oval in shape and have toothed margins. The leaves are green and smooth, and they can grow up to 7 centimeters in length. The plant produces a tall stem that can reach up to 40 centimeters in height, and it bears a cluster of small white or pink flowers at the top. The flowers have five petals and are arranged in a panicle or corymb-shaped inflorescence.
Care Guide
The Micranthes Occidentalis plant is relatively easy to care for and is suitable for growing in rock gardens, alpine troughs, and containers. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the Micranthes Occidentalis in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun, so make sure it is not exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.
- Hardiness Zones: The Micranthes Occidentalis is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Micranthes Occidentalis plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Some common pests that may affect the plant include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Micranthes Occidentalis plant is native to North America and can be found growing in moist and rocky habitats, such as alpine and subalpine meadows, talus slopes, and rocky outcrops. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Micranthes Occidentalis plant suitable for growing in containers?
A: Yes, the plant is suitable for growing in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container has adequate drainage holes.
Q: When should I fertilize the Micranthes Occidentalis plant?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, which is from spring to early fall.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Micranthes Occidentalis plant?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Q: How often should I water the Micranthes Occidentalis plant?
A: Water the plant regularly, but make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
Related Plants
- Micranthes Odontoloma
- Micranthes Idahonis
- Micranthes Stellaris
- Micranthes Californica
References
- Arctic and Alpine Plants. (n.d.). Micranthes occidentalis. Retrieved from https://www.arctic-alpine-botanic.cz/micranthes-occidentalis
- Flora of North America. (n.d.). Micranthes occidentalis. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=242415646
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Micranthes occidentalis. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f220
