Contents
Description
Montia Australasica is a plant species that is native to Australia and New Zealand. It is also known as “New Zealand spinach” or “waterblommetjie” in South Africa. This plant is an annual or perennial herb that can grow up to 60 cm tall. It is commonly found in damp or wet areas such as swamps, bogs, and riverbanks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Montiaceae |
| Genus | Montia |
Appearance
Montia Australasica has green, succulent leaves that are heart-shaped and can grow up to 4 cm long. The leaves are arranged in a rosette pattern at the base of the stem, with smaller leaves growing up the stem. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that bloom from spring to summer. The fruit is a capsule that contains tiny, black seeds.
Care Guide
Montia Australasica requires moist soil and partial shade. It can be grown in containers or directly in the ground. Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels. Montia Australasica can be grown in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Montia Australasica is generally not affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To avoid this, make sure the plant is not sitting in water and that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Montia Australasica is native to wet areas such as swamps, bogs, and riverbanks in Australia and New Zealand. It can also be found in parts of South Africa. It prefers moist, partially shaded areas and can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Montia Australasica edible?
A: Yes, the leaves of Montia Australasica are edible and can be used as a substitute for spinach.
Q: Can I grow Montia Australasica indoors?
A: Yes, Montia Australasica can be grown indoors in a container with moist soil and partial shade.
Q: Does Montia Australasica attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the flowers of Montia Australasica attract bees and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I fertilize Montia Australasica?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Montia fontana
- Montia chamissoi
- Montia sibirica
- Montia perfoliata
References
- “Montia Australasica.” PlantNet. Accessed 12 May 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Montia~australasica
- “Montia Australasica.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Accessed 12 May 2021. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/montia-australasica/
- “Montia Australasica.” South African National Biodiversity Institute. Accessed 12 May 2021. https://pza.sanbi.org/montia-australasica
