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Description
Monotropastrum is a genus of flowering plants that belong to the Ericaceae family. This genus contains only one species, Monotropastrum humile, which is also known by the common name of yellow bird’s nest. This plant is native to the forests of Asia, Europe, and North America, and can be found growing in moist soil conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Monotropastrum |
Appearance
The yellow bird’s nest plant has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other species. It grows up to 10cm tall and has yellowish-white flowers that are clustered together at the top of the stem. The leaves are reduced to scales and the stem is covered with small hairs. The plant produces a fleshy underground rhizome that is yellowish-brown in color and has a branched structure.
Care Guide
When it comes to caring for Monotropastrum, it’s important to keep in mind that this plant is a mycoheterotroph, which means that it obtains its nutrients from fungi. Here are some tips to help you care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Since Monotropastrum obtains its nutrients from fungi, there is no need to fertilize the plant.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant thrives in shady areas and does not require direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: Monotropastrum grows best in hardiness zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Monotropastrum is generally not susceptible to pests or diseases due to its unique mycoheterotrophic lifestyle. However, it may occasionally fall prey to fungal infections if the soil is overly moist or if the plant is grown in poor soil conditions.
Habitat
The yellow bird’s nest plant is commonly found growing in the understory of forests, particularly in areas with moist soil conditions. It is often associated with trees such as birch, fir, and spruce. This plant has a circumboreal distribution and can be found in Asia, Europe, and North America.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Monotropastrum an easy plant to grow?
A: Monotropastrum can be a bit challenging to grow due to its unique mycoheterotrophic lifestyle. However, with proper care, it can be grown successfully.
Q: Does Monotropastrum require direct sunlight?
A: No, Monotropastrum thrives in shady areas and does not require direct sunlight.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Monotropastrum?
A: Monotropastrum grows best in hardiness zones 3-7.
Q: How often should I water Monotropastrum?
A: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
Related Plants
- Monotropa
- Sarcodes
- Pterospora
References
- Flora of North America. (n.d.). Monotropastrum. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=125705
- The Plant List. (2013). Monotropastrum. Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Ericaceae/Monotropastrum/
- USDA. (n.d.). Plants Profile for Monotropastrum humile (yellow bird’s nest). Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=MOHU2
