Retama Sphaerocarpa

Description

Retama Sphaerocarpa, also known as the globe broom, is a small deciduous shrub that is native to the Mediterranean region. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is characterized by its beautiful yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and has thin, green leaves that are needle-like in shape.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Retama Sphaerocarpa is a small deciduous shrub with a rounded shape. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and has thin, green leaves that are needle-like in shape. The plant is characterized by its beautiful yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers are pea-like in shape and grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The stem of the plant is thin and woody, and the bark is light gray in color.

Care Guide

The Retama Sphaerocarpa is a hardy plant that requires little maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

• Water: The plant requires moderate watering. Make sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year during the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
• Sunlight: The Retama Sphaerocarpa requires full sunlight to grow and bloom.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 7-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Retama Sphaerocarpa is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Here are some common problems and how to treat them:

• Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
• Scale Insects: These pests can cause yellowing and stunted growth. Use horticultural oil to control the infestation.
• Root Rot: This disease can be caused by overwatering. Reduce watering and improve soil drainage to prevent root rot.

Habitat

The Retama Sphaerocarpa is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in the wild in Spain, Portugal, and North Africa. The plant prefers dry, rocky soils and can grow in coastal areas as well as inland regions. It is often found growing in areas with full sunlight and little water.

Question and Answer

Here are some common questions and answers related to the Retama Sphaerocarpa:

• Q: How often should I water my Retama Sphaerocarpa?
• A: Water the plant moderately, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• Q: What type of soil does the Retama Sphaerocarpa prefer?
• A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
• Q: What should I do if I notice spider mites on my Retama Sphaerocarpa?
• A: Use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
• Q: Where is the Retama Sphaerocarpa native to?
• A: The plant is native to the Mediterranean region, including Spain, Portugal, and North Africa.

Related Plants

Here are some plants that are related to the Retama Sphaerocarpa:

• Retama Monosperma
• Retama Raetam
• Retama Dasycarpa

References

• “Retama Sphaerocarpa.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/ild-502.
• “Retama Sphaerocarpa.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=500178.
• “Retama Sphaerocarpa.” Plants of the World Online, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/500178-1.