Contents
Description
Mundulea Sericea is a flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is commonly found in the African savannah, especially in countries like South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. It is also known as Cork Bush or Silk Bush due to its corky bark and silky leaves. The plant grows up to 1-2 meters in height and spreads up to 1-2 meters in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Mundulea |
Appearance
Mundulea Sericea is a deciduous plant with yellow flowers that bloom in late winter or early spring. The flowers are small and arranged in clusters, making them very attractive to bees and other pollinators. The leaves are silky, gray-green in color, and have a distinct aroma when crushed. The plant has a corky bark that provides protection against fires and herbivores.
Care Guide
Mundulea Sericea is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you take care of your plant:
Water: Water the plant sparingly, especially during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out between watering.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mundulea Sericea is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap and fungicides can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
Mundulea Sericea is commonly found in the African savannah, especially in dry areas with rocky soil. It is also found in areas with low rainfall and high temperatures. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in harsh conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Mundulea Sericea survive in cold temperatures?
A: No, the plant is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Mundulea Sericea?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How tall does Mundulea Sericea grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 1-2 meters in height.
Q: Does Mundulea Sericea attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s yellow flowers are very attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Mundulea Comosa
- Mundulea Kraussiana
- Mundulea Sericea var. Glabrescens
References
- Mundulea Sericea. PlantZAfrica. Retrieved from https://pza.sanbi.org/mundulea-sericea
- Mundulea Sericea. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=292919
- Smith, G.F., & Figueiredo, E. (2008). Mundulea. In G.V. Pope, J.C. Manning, P. Goldblatt, & D.J. Paterson (Eds.), The Plants of Southern Africa: An Annotated Checklist (pp. 624-625). Strelitzia 26. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.
