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Description
Pimelea Sericea, commonly known as the silky rice-flower, is a small shrub that belongs to the Thymelaeaceae family. It is native to Australia and commonly found in the eastern regions of New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland. The plant typically grows up to 50cm tall and has a spread of 30-60cm. The silky rice-flower blooms during spring and summer, producing clusters of small white or pink flowers that emit a sweet fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Thymelaeaceae |
| Genus | Pimelea |
Appearance
The silky rice-flower has a dense branching habit with narrow, grey-green leaves that are 1-3cm long. The flowers are small and bell-shaped, with a diameter of 5-8mm. They are clustered together in terminal heads that are 1-2cm wide. The flowers are white or pink with a sweet fragrance, and the fruit is a small, brown capsule that is 3-4mm long.
Care Guide
Pimelea Sericea is a low-maintenance plant and can thrive in most soil types. However, it prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight exposure. Here are some tips to care for your silky rice-flower:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the first year of growth to establish its roots. After that, it can tolerate drought conditions.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer to encourage healthy growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral.
- Sunlight: The silky rice-flower prefers full sunlight exposure to bloom properly.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and grows well in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pimelea Sericea is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or grown in poorly draining soil. Here are some common pests and diseases that may affect the plant:
- Mealybugs: These pests suck on the plant’s sap, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These pests cause yellowing and curling of leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. Treat by improving soil drainage and reducing watering frequency.
Habitat
Pimelea Sericea is native to Australia and commonly found in the eastern regions of New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight exposure, making it ideal for rocky outcrops, cliffs, and dunes. It is also commonly found in heathlands and open woodland areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pimelea Sericea toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Pimelea Sericea is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets and children.
Q: How often should I fertilize my silky rice-flower?
A: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer to encourage healthy growth.
Q: Can I grow Pimelea Sericea in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and full sunlight exposure.
Q: Does Pimelea Sericea attract bees?
A: Yes, Pimelea Sericea attracts bees and other pollinators with its sweet fragrance.
Related Plants
- Pimelea Ferruginea
- Pimelea Glauca
- Pimelea Linifolia
- Pimelea Prostrata
References
- “Pimelea Sericea.” PlantNET. Accessed 27 July 2021. <http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Pimelea~sericea>.
- “Pimelea Sericea.” Australian Native Plants Society. Accessed 27 July 2021. <https://anpsa.org.au/p-ser.html>.
- “Silky Rice-Flower.” Gardening Australia. Accessed 27 July 2021. <https://www.gardeningaustralia.com.au/plants/silky-rice-flower/>.
