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Description
Rugelia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. It consists of only one species, Rugelia nudicaulis, which is commonly known as the Florida rosemary or naked-stemmed rugelia. It is a perennial herb that is native to the southeastern United States.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Rugelia |
Appearance
Rugelia nudicaulis is a low-growing, evergreen herb that can reach a height of up to 60 cm. It has narrow, linear leaves that are about 1 cm long and 1 mm wide. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stem and have a grayish-green color. The plant produces small, blue-violet flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the end of the stems and bloom from late spring to early summer.
Care Guide
Rugelia nudicaulis is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in full sun or partial shade and is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10. Here are some care tips for Rugelia:- Water: Rugelia prefers moist soil, so water it regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Fertilize Rugelia with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer.- Soil: Rugelia prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.- Sunlight: Rugelia can grow in full sun or partial shade. In hot climates, it may prefer some afternoon shade.- Hardiness Zones: Rugelia is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rugelia is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Here are some common pests and diseases that may affect Rugelia:- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die.- Aphids: Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can infest the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, spider-like pests that can infest the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Rugelia nudicaulis is native to the southeastern United States, where it can be found in pine forests, sandhills, and other dry, sandy habitats. It is often found growing in association with other herbs and grasses.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Rugelia nudicaulis a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Rugelia produces small, blue-violet flowers that are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Rugelia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Rugelia can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does Rugelia require pruning?
A: Rugelia does not require pruning, but it can be lightly pruned after flowering to maintain its shape.
Q: Is Rugelia invasive?
A: No, Rugelia is not considered invasive.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Rugelia:- Echinacea purpurea (purple coneflower)- Rudbeckia hirta (black-eyed Susan)- Coreopsis verticillata (whorled tickseed)- Gaillardia pulchella (Indian blanket)
References
– “Rugelia nudicaulis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Available online: http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c290.- “Rugelia nudicaulis.” North Carolina State University. Available online: https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/rugelia-nudicaulis/.- “Rugelia nudicaulis.” University of Florida. Available online: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp460.
