Contents
Description
Pimelea Carnosa is also called the ‘Dwarf Rice Flower’ and is a flowering plant that belongs to the Thymelaeaceae family. This plant is native to the southern and eastern regions of Australia and is known for its compact growth and attractive flowers. Pimelea Carnosa has a woody base and can grow up to 60 cm in height. Its flowers are small and shaped like a ball with a diameter of around 1 cm. The flowers bloom in spring and summer, and their color ranges from pale pink to white. The plant’s leaves are narrow, around 3 cm long, and have a glossy surface.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Thymelaeaceae |
| Genus | Pimelea |
Appearance
Pimelea Carnosa is a compact shrub with a woody base that can grow up to 60 cm in height. Its leaves are narrow and glossy, growing up to 3 cm long. The plant’s flowers are small, round, and range in color from pale pink to white. The flowers bloom in spring and summer and have a diameter of around 1 cm. The plant’s overall appearance is attractive, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping.
Care Guide
Proper care is essential for Pimelea Carnosa to thrive. Here’s a detailed guide:
Water
Water the plant regularly during the growing season. Ensure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during winter when the plant is dormant.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant during its growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can cause root burn.
Soil
Pimelea Carnosa prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral.
Sunlight
The plant requires full sunlight to thrive. Ensure it gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Pimelea Carnosa grows best in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The most common pests and diseases that affect Pimelea Carnosa include:
Pests
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Whiteflies
Diseases
- Root rot
- Powdery mildew
- Leaf spot
Habitat
Pimelea Carnosa is native to the southern and eastern regions of Australia. It grows in sandy or loamy soils in coastal areas, heathlands, and woodlands. The plant prefers a warm climate and full sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pimelea Carnosa a frost-tolerant plant?
A: Pimelea Carnosa is not frost-tolerant and can be damaged by frost.
Q: Can Pimelea Carnosa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Pimelea Carnosa can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: How often should I prune Pimelea Carnosa?
A: Prune the plant after it has finished flowering to maintain its compact shape. Remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: Is Pimelea Carnosa toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Pimelea Carnosa is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep the plant out of reach of pets.
Related Plants
- Pimelea Physodes
- Pimelea Ferruginea
- Pimelea Prostrata
References
- https://www.gardenclinic.com.au/how-to-grow-article/dwarf-rice-flower-pimelea-carnosa
- https://www.australianplantsonline.com.au/pimelea-carnosa-rice-flower.html
- https://www.gardeningwithangus.com.au/pimelea-carnosa-rice-flower/
