Myosotis Rakiura

Description

Myosotis Rakiura, commonly known as the Rakiura Forget-Me-Not, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to New Zealand’s Stewart Island and nearby islets. The plant is known for its exceptional beauty, with delicate blue flowers that bloom in spring and summer. The Rakiura Forget-Me-Not is a perennial plant that can grow up to 15 cm tall and 20 cm wide. Its leaves are lance-shaped and covered in fine hair.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Rakiura Forget-Me-Not is a small plant with blue flowers that bloom in spring and summer. The flowers are 1 cm in diameter and have five petals. They grow in clusters at the top of the plant’s stem. The leaves of the Rakiura Forget-Me-Not are long, narrow, and covered in fine hair. They grow alternately on the stem and are up to 5 cm long. The plant can grow up to 15 cm tall and 20 cm wide.

Care Guide

To care for the Rakiura Forget-Me-Not, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones. The plant prefers moist soil but can also tolerate dry conditions. It needs to be watered regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The Rakiura Forget-Me-Not thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Rakiura Forget-Me-Not is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, and root rot. Aphids and spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Powdery mildew can be prevented by providing adequate air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. Root rot can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-draining and not overwatering the plant.

Habitat

The Rakiura Forget-Me-Not is native to Stewart Island and nearby islets in New Zealand. It grows in damp, shady areas such as forest floors, stream banks, and wetlands. The plant is found at elevations of up to 400 meters above sea level.

Question and Answer

Q: Is the Rakiura Forget-Me-Not an endangered species?

A: Yes, the Rakiura Forget-Me-Not is considered an endangered species. Its habitat is threatened by introduced predators, habitat destruction, and climate change.

Q: Can the Rakiura Forget-Me-Not be grown in containers?

A: Yes, the Rakiura Forget-Me-Not can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining soil mix and provide adequate water and sunlight.

Q: Can the Rakiura Forget-Me-Not be grown from seed?

A: Yes, the Rakiura Forget-Me-Not can be grown from seed. Sow the seeds in early spring in a well-draining soil mix.

Q: Can the Rakiura Forget-Me-Not be propagated by cuttings?

A: Yes, the Rakiura Forget-Me-Not can be propagated by cuttings. Take stem cuttings in early summer and root them in a well-draining soil mix.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to the Rakiura Forget-Me-Not:

• Myosotis alpestris
• Myosotis arvensis
• Myosotis discolor
• Myosotis scorpioides

References

• “Myosotis rakiura.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Web. 15 June 2021.
• “Myosotis rakiura.” Plants of the World Online. Web. 15 June 2021.
• “Myosotis rakiura.” Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Web. 15 June 2021.