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Description
Ornithopus Pinnatus, commonly known as the Pink Bird’s-foot, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region, particularly in areas with calcareous soils. The plant can grow up to 50 cm tall and has a woody base. Its leaves are alternate and pinnate, with three leaflets that are hairy and oval-shaped. The flowers of Ornithopus Pinnatus are pink, small, and clustered together in heads. The plant blooms from spring to summer, and the fruits are hairy legumes that contain seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Ornithopus |
| Species | Ornithopus Pinnatus |
Appearance
Ornithopus Pinnatus has thin stems that grow up to 50 cm tall. Its leaves are alternate and pinnate, with three hairy and oval-shaped leaflets. The plant produces small pink flowers that are clustered together in heads. The flowers bloom from spring to summer and are followed by hairy legumes that contain seeds. The plant has a woody base and can be grown as a ground cover or as an ornamental plant in gardens.
Care Guide
Ornithopus Pinnatus is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly during the growing season. However, it can tolerate periods of drought.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of fertilizer during the growing season can help promote growth.
- Soil: Ornithopus Pinnatus prefers soils that are well-draining and sandy. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Ornithopus Pinnatus is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests and Diseases
Ornithopus Pinnatus is generally not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, it may be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause yellowing of the leaves.
- Mites: These tiny insects can cause stippling on the leaves and a general decline in the plant’s health.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems.
Habitat
Ornithopus Pinnatus is native to the Mediterranean region, particularly in areas with calcareous soils. It can be found on rocky slopes, grasslands, and in open woodlands. The plant has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Australia and South Africa.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ornithopus Pinnatus a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Ornithopus Pinnatus can be used as a ground cover or as an ornamental plant in gardens.
Q: Is Ornithopus Pinnatus a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, Ornithopus Pinnatus can tolerate periods of drought.
Q: What type of soil does Ornithopus Pinnatus prefer?
A: Ornithopus Pinnatus prefers soils that are well-draining and sandy.
Q: Does Ornithopus Pinnatus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Ornithopus Pinnatus produces small pink flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Ornithopus Sativus
- Ornithopus Perpusillus
- Ornithopus compressus
References
- “Ornithopus Pinnatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283346. Accessed 8 Nov. 2021.
- “Ornithopus Pinnatus.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantnop/ornithopuspinn.htm. Accessed 8 Nov. 2021.
- “Ornithopus Pinnatus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/267935/ornithopus-pinnatus/details. Accessed 8 Nov. 2021.
