Contents [hide]
Description
Oxytheca Perfoliata, commonly known as Clasping-leaved oxytheca, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Nyctaginaceae. It is an annual plant that grows up to 15-30 cm tall and is native to North America. The plant has a green stem that is square in shape and branches out into small, green leaves that are arranged oppositely. It produces small white or pink flowers that bloom from June to September. The plant is known to be drought-tolerant and can survive in harsh environments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Nyctaginaceae |
| Genus | Oxytheca |
| Species | Oxytheca perfoliata |
Appearance
Oxytheca Perfoliata has a green stem that is square in shape and branches out into small, green leaves that are arranged oppositely. The plant grows up to 15-30 cm tall and produces small white or pink flowers that bloom from June to September. The flowers have five petals and are very small, measuring only 2-3 mm in diameter. The plant’s leaves are perfoliate, which means that they appear to be pierced through by the stem. The leaves clasp the stem and are arranged in pairs, with each pair being perpendicular to the pair above or below it.
Care Guide
Oxytheca Perfoliata is a drought-tolerant plant that requires little care. Here are some care tips for this plant:
Water: The plant does not require much water and can survive in dry conditions. Water the plant once a week, or whenever the soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil during planting if you want to promote growth.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil and can grow in sandy or clay soils. It can tolerate soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sunlight, but can also grow in partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Oxytheca Perfoliata can grow in hardiness zones 4 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oxytheca Perfoliata is not known to have any major pest or disease problems. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant.
Habitat
Oxytheca Perfoliata is native to North America and is commonly found in dry, sandy soils. It can be found in prairies, fields, and along roadsides. The plant can tolerate harsh environments and is often found in areas with little rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Oxytheca Perfoliata toxic to pets?
A: No, Oxytheca Perfoliata is not toxic to pets.
Q: Can Oxytheca Perfoliata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Oxytheca Perfoliata can be grown in containers as long as the container has drainage holes and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I water Oxytheca Perfoliata?
A: Water the plant once a week, or whenever the soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: How tall does Oxytheca Perfoliata grow?
A: Oxytheca Perfoliata can grow up to 15-30 cm tall.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Oxytheca Perfoliata:
- Oxytheca Parishii
- Oxytheca Watertonensis
- Oxytheca Perfoliata var. Mojavensis
References
- USDA Plants Database: Oxytheca Perfoliata
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Oxytheca Perfoliata
- Wildflower Center: Oxytheca Perfoliata
