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Description
Sandersonia Aurantiaca, commonly known as the Golden lily of the valley or Christmas bells, is a flowering plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the family Colchicaceae and is known for its beautiful bell-shaped flowers that bloom in late summer and early autumn. The plant has a long stem and can reach a height of up to 60 cm. The flowers are orange-yellow in color and have a distinct spicy scent. The leaves are lance-shaped and grow up to 15 cm long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Colchicaceae |
| Genus | Sandersonia |
Appearance
Sandersonia Aurantiaca is a beautiful plant that adds color to any garden or indoor space. The long stems can grow up to 60 cm in height and are adorned with lance-shaped leaves that can reach up to 15 cm in length. The flowers are bell-shaped and are orange-yellow in color. They have a distinct spicy scent and bloom in late summer and early autumn. The plant has a bulbous root system and can be grown in pots or in the ground.
Care Guide
Sandersonia Aurantiaca is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to take care of this beautiful plant:Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant period.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Sandersonia Aurantiaca is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sandersonia Aurantiaca is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil. Spider mites and mealybugs can also infest the plant. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticidal soap can help keep these pests at bay.
Habitat
Sandersonia Aurantiaca is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky grasslands and scrublands. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of conditions, including heat, drought, and poor soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Sandersonia Aurantiaca be grown indoors?A: Yes, Sandersonia Aurantiaca can be grown indoors in pots. It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.Q: How often should I fertilize Sandersonia Aurantiaca?A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Q: Can Sandersonia Aurantiaca be grown in cold climates?A: Sandersonia Aurantiaca is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and can be grown in colder climates if protected from frost.Q: How often should I water Sandersonia Aurantiaca?A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant period.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Sandersonia Aurantiaca:- Colchicum autumnale- Gloriosa superba- Tulbaghia violacea- Zephyranthes candida
References
– PlantZAfrica.com. (n.d.). Sandersonia aurantiaca. Retrieved from https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/sandersonauran.htm- The Spruce. (2021). Sandersonia Aurantiaca: How to Grow and Care for Christmas Bells. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/sandersonia-aurantiaca-plant-profile-5079216
