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Description
Ourisia Spathulata, also known as the Rock Star Plant, is a perennial flowering plant native to New Zealand. It is a member of the primrose family and is known for its beautiful foliage and delicate flowers. The plant has a low growing habit and spreads out in a mat-like formation. The leaves are small and spathulate (spoon-shaped) with toothed margins. The flowers are pink or white and bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Primulaceae |
| Genus | Ourisia |
Appearance
Ourisia Spathulata is a small plant that grows up to 10cm tall and spreads out up to 50cm wide. It has spathulate leaves that are up to 2cm long, with a glossy green upper surface and a pale underside. The stem is wiry and reddish-brown in color. The flowers are small, pink or white, and bloom in clusters from late spring to early summer. The plant has a delicate and beautiful appearance that makes it a great addition to rock gardens or as a groundcover.
Care Guide
Ourisia Spathulata requires moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 9. To protect the plant from frost, mulch around the base in the fall.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ourisia Spathulata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-drained and do not overwater the plant. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these issues, ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Ourisia Spathulata is native to New Zealand and can be found growing on rocky areas, cliffs, and alpine meadows. It prefers cool, moist environments and can be found at elevations up to 1200 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ourisia Spathulata be grown indoors?
A: Ourisia Spathulata is not suitable for indoor growing as it requires full sun and cool temperatures to thrive.
Q: How often should I water Ourisia Spathulata?
A: Ourisia Spathulata requires consistent moisture, so water the plant whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Can Ourisia Spathulata grow in sandy soil?
A: Ourisia Spathulata prefers moist, well-drained soil. Sandy soil may not retain enough moisture, so it is not the best choice for this plant.
Q: Does Ourisia Spathulata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the delicate flowers of Ourisia Spathulata attract bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Ourisia Coccinea
- Ourisia Macrocarpa
- Ourisia Caespitosa
- Ourisia Odorata
References
- “Ourisia Spathulata (Rock Star Plant).” Plant Lust. Accessed September 12, 2021. https://plantlust.com/plants/ourisia-spathulata/.
- “Ourisia Spathulata.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Accessed September 12, 2021. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/ourisia-spathulata/.
- “Ourisia Spathulata.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 12, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/321339/Ourisia-spathulata/Details.
