Contents
Description
Micrantheum Serpentinum is a flowering perennial plant that belongs to the family Saxifragaceae. It is native to the western United States and is commonly found in rocky and serpentine soils. The plant produces small white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer and prefers moist soil conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Micrantheum |
Appearance
Micrantheum Serpentinum grows up to 12 inches tall and 18 inches wide. The plant produces basal rosettes of leaves that are green and lance-shaped. The flowers are white or pink and grow in clusters at the end of long stems. The plant blooms in the summer and prefers partial shade. It has a moderate growth rate and is easy to care for.
Care Guide
Water: Micrantheum Serpentinum prefers moist soil conditions and should be watered regularly during the growing season. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Soil: Micrantheum Serpentinum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate serpentine soils but does not do well in heavy clay soils.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade and can tolerate full shade. It should be protected from hot afternoon sun.
Hardiness Zones: Micrantheum Serpentinum is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Micrantheum Serpentinum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil. It can also be affected by powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions.
Habitat
Micrantheum Serpentinum is native to the western United States and is commonly found in rocky and serpentine soils. It can be found in a variety of habitats including woodlands, meadows, and rocky outcroppings.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Micrantheum Serpentinum?
A: The plant prefers moist soil conditions and should be watered regularly during the growing season. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Q: What is the preferred sunlight exposure for Micrantheum Serpentinum?
A: The plant prefers partial shade and can tolerate full shade. It should be protected from hot afternoon sun.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Micrantheum Serpentinum?
A: Micrantheum Serpentinum is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Q: What type of soil is best for Micrantheum Serpentinum?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate serpentine soils but does not do well in heavy clay soils.
Related Plants
- Micrantheum hexandrum
- Micrantheum montanum
- Micrantheum tweedyi
References
- “Micrantheum Serpentinum.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 Sept. 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=244401.
- “Micrantheum Serpentinum.” Pacific Bulb Society. Accessed 22 Sept. 2021. https://www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/MicrantheumSerpentinum
