Contents
Description
Mitrasacme Pygmaea is a small perennial herb that belongs to the family Gentianaceae. It is native to South Africa and Madagascar, but it is also found in other parts of the world, including Australia and New Zealand. The plant is also known by its common names, Dwarf Mitrewort and Pygmy Mitrewort. It is a low-growing species that only reaches a height of 2-3cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Gentianaceae |
| Genus | Mitrasacme |
Appearance
Mitrasacme Pygmaea has small, round, bright green leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. The leaves are only 1-2mm in diameter, and they are covered in tiny hairs. The plant produces small, white, star-shaped flowers that are approximately 2mm in diameter. The flowers have yellow centers and are held above the foliage on thin, wiry stems. The plant is a slow grower, and it can take several years to reach its full size.
Care Guide
Mitrasacme Pygmaea is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. The plant requires moderate watering, and it should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate some shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mitrasacme Pygmaea is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. The plant can also be affected by spider mites, which can be treated with a miticide spray.
Habitat
Mitrasacme Pygmaea is found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, rocky outcrops, and sandstone slopes. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Mitrasacme Pygmaea be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Mitrasacme Pygmaea can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should Mitrasacme Pygmaea be fertilized?
A: Mitrasacme Pygmaea does not require frequent fertilization. It can be fertilized once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Mitrasacme Pygmaea be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Mitrasacme Pygmaea can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. The cuttings should be allowed to dry for a few days before being planted in well-draining soil.
Q: Is Mitrasacme Pygmaea toxic to pets?
A: There is no information available to suggest that Mitrasacme Pygmaea is toxic to pets.
Related Plants
- Mitrasacme Parviflora
- Mitrasacme Hirsuta
- Mitrasacme Laxa
- Mitrasacme Polymorpha
References
- “Mitrasacme pygmaea,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed August 10, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b643.
- “Mitrasacme Pygmaea,” PlantZAfrica, accessed August 10, 2021, https://pza.sanbi.org/mitrasacme-pygmaea.
- “Mitrasacme Pygmaea: Dwarf Mitrewort,” World of Succulents, accessed August 10, 2021, https://worldofsucculents.com/mitrasacme-pygmaea-dwarf-mitrewort/.
