Contents
Description
Ononis Minutissima, also known as Dwarf Restharrow, is a low-growing herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Europe and can be found in dry, rocky areas, such as hillsides, meadows, and forests. The plant is known for its attractive pink flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Ononis |
Appearance
The Ononis Minutissima plant grows up to 10-20 cm tall and spreads up to 30 cm wide. It has a woody stem that is covered with fine hairs, and the leaves are pinnately compound with 5-7 oval-shaped leaflets. The flowers grow in clusters of 2-5 and are pink in color, with a yellow center. The plant blooms from May to July, and the fruit is a small, hairy pod.
Care Guide
Water: Ononis Minutissima prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate excessive moisture. Water the plant regularly, but make sure the soil is not waterlogged.
Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil that is slightly acidic. It does not tolerate heavy clay soils.
Sunlight: Ononis Minutissima prefers full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Ononis Minutissima plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-drained soil. Watch out for aphids and spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Ononis Minutissima is native to Europe and can be found in dry, rocky areas, such as hillsides, meadows, and forests. It is often used in rock gardens or as a border plant. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ononis Minutissima a hardy plant?
A: Yes, the plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Q: Can Ononis Minutissima tolerate shade?
A: Yes, the plant can tolerate some shade, but it may not flower as well.
Q: How often should I fertilize Ononis Minutissima?
A: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.
Q: What pests and diseases should I watch out for with Ononis Minutissima?
A: Watch out for root rot if grown in poorly-drained soil. Aphids and spider mites can also be a problem, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Related Plants
- Ononis arvensis
- Ononis fruticosa
- Ononis natrix
References
- “Ononis Minutissima.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279272&isprofile=0&basic=Ononis%20minutissima. Accessed 27 Aug. 2021.
- “Ononis Minutissima.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/262616/ononis-minutissima/details. Accessed 27 Aug. 2021.
- “Ononis Minutissima.” Plant Finder, www.plantfinder.co.uk/ononis-minutissima-12044. Accessed 27 Aug. 2021.
