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Description
Rhexia Lutea, also known as Yellow Meadow Beauty, is a native perennial wildflower that belongs to the Melastomataceae family. It is found in wet meadows, bogs, and swamps in the eastern United States, from Maine to Florida and west to Texas. The plant is characterized by its bright yellow flowers and hairy, square stems that grow up to two feet tall. Its leaves are narrow and lance-like, and its fruit is a dry capsule that splits open to release numerous small seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Melastomataceae |
| Genus | Rhexia |
Appearance
Rhexia Lutea is a beautiful wildflower that produces bright yellow flowers that bloom from June to August. The flowers are about an inch in diameter and have five petals that form a cup shape. The leaves of the plant are narrow and lance-like and grow to about three inches long. The stem of the plant is hairy and square, and it can grow up to two feet tall. The fruit of the plant is a dry capsule that splits open to release numerous small seeds.
Care Guide
Rhexia Lutea is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in moist, well-drained soil. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of soil pH levels. Here are some care tips to keep your Rhexia Lutea healthy:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant Rhexia Lutea in moist, well-drained soil with a pH between 5.0 and 7.0.
- Sunlight: Plant Rhexia Lutea in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Rhexia Lutea is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhexia Lutea is generally free from major pest and disease problems. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust in humid conditions. Here are some common pests and diseases to look out for:
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. It can be treated with a fungicide.
- Rust: This fungal disease appears as orange or brown spots on the leaves of the plant. It can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Rhexia Lutea is native to wet meadows, bogs, and swamps in the eastern United States. It can be found from Maine to Florida and west to Texas. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Rhexia Lutea a good plant for wet areas?
A: Yes, Rhexia Lutea is a great plant for wet areas such as bogs and swamps.
Q: Can Rhexia Lutea be grown in containers?
A: While Rhexia Lutea can be grown in containers, it is best suited for growing in the ground.
Q: Does Rhexia Lutea attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Rhexia Lutea is known to attract bees and butterflies with its bright yellow flowers.
Q: How often should Rhexia Lutea be fertilized?
A: Rhexia Lutea should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Rhexia alifanus
- Rhexia aristosa
- Rhexia nashii
- Rhexia virginica
References
- USDA Plants Database. Rhexia Lutea.
- North Carolina State University Extension. Rhexia Lutea.
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. Rhexia Lutea.
