Contents
Description
Nematolepis Squamea, commonly known as the Pincushion plant, is a species of plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is a perennial plant that is native to South Africa and is known for its unique and attractive flowers. The plant produces small, round, pincushion-like flowers that come in shades of white, pink, and purple. The flowers are held on long stems above the foliage, making them very visible and eye-catching.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Nematolepis |
Appearance
The Nematolepis Squamea plant grows up to 50cm in height and up to 60cm in width. It has light green, lance-shaped leaves that grow in a rosette at the base of the plant. The leaves are covered in fine hairs, giving them a velvety texture. The flowers are the most distinctive feature of the plant. They are small, round, and pincushion-like, with a diameter of around 3cm. The flowers come in shades of white, pink, and purple and are held on long stems above the foliage. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer.
Care Guide
Water: Nematolepis Squamea prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Plant Nematolepis Squamea in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Nematolepis Squamea is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nematolepis Squamea is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Common pests that may attack the plant include aphids and spider mites. Treat pests with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Nematolepis Squamea is native to South Africa and is found in rocky areas and on hillsides. It thrives in well-draining soil and prefers full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Nematolepis Squamea be grown indoors?
A: Nematolepis Squamea can be grown indoors in a bright and sunny location, but it prefers to be grown outdoors.
Q: How often should I fertilize Nematolepis Squamea?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How often should I water Nematolepis Squamea?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Nematolepis Squamea?
A: Nematolepis Squamea is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Nematolepis Pinnata
- Nematolepis Undulata
- Nematolepis Gracilis
References
- “Nematolepis Squamea.” PlantZAfrica, National Botanical Institute, 2021, http://pza.sanbi.org/nematolepis-squamea.
- “Nematolepis Squamea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c407.
- “Nematolepis Squamea.” Royal Horticultural Society, 2021, http://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/13168/Nematolepis-squamea/Details.
