Contents
Description
Otholobium Candicans, commonly known as the silvery pea, is a species of flowering plant in the pea family, Fabaceae. It is native to the Western Cape of South Africa and can be found in sandy, rocky soils in fynbos and renosterveld vegetation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Otholobium |
Appearance
Otholobium Candicans is a small, compact shrub that grows up to 1 meter in height. It has silvery-grey leaves that are covered in soft hairs and small, yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. The plant has a woody stem and branches that are covered in a silver-grey bark.
Care Guide
Otholobium Candicans requires well-draining soil and regular watering during the growing season. It prefers full sun exposure and is hardy in USDA zones 8-10. Fertilization should be done sparingly with a balanced fertilizer. Pruning should be done after flowering to maintain shape and promote new growth.
Common Pests & Diseases
Otholobium Candicans is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if over-watered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Otholobium Candicans is native to the Western Cape of South Africa and can be found in sandy, rocky soils in fynbos and renosterveld vegetation. It is adapted to a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Otholobium Candicans drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Otholobium Candicans is adapted to hot, dry summers and is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Can Otholobium Candicans be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Otholobium Candicans can be grown in containers as long as they are well-draining and the plant is not over-watered.
Q: How often should I fertilize Otholobium Candicans?
A: Fertilization should be done sparingly with a balanced fertilizer, once or twice a year.
Q: When is the best time to prune Otholobium Candicans?
A: Pruning should be done after flowering to maintain shape and promote new growth.
Related Plants
- Otholobium Hirtum
- Otholobium Stipulare
- Otholobium Pulchellum
References
- PlantZAfrica: Otholobium Candicans. (n.d.). Retrieved March 23, 2021, from http://pza.sanbi.org/otholobium-candicans
- Otholobium Candicans. (n.d.). Retrieved March 23, 2021, from https://www.plantwise.org/knowledgebank/datasheet/48131
- Otholobium Candicans. (n.d.). Retrieved March 23, 2021, from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/silvery-pea/silvery-pea-plant-care.htm
