Contents
Description
Scleranthus Perennis is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is also known as Knawel, and it is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. This plant is a small, mat-forming perennial that grows up to 2-5 cm in height. It has a woody base and numerous ascending or erect branches that are covered with small, pointed leaves. The flowers of Scleranthus Perennis are greenish-white, small, and inconspicuous.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Scleranthus |
Appearance
Scleranthus Perennis is a small, mat-forming perennial that has a woody base and numerous ascending or erect branches. The leaves of this plant are small, pointed, and green, and they are arranged in opposite pairs along the stems. The flowers of Scleranthus Perennis are greenish-white, small, and inconspicuous. This plant typically blooms in late spring to early summer.
Care Guide
Scleranthus Perennis is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Scleranthus Perennis prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot and dry weather.- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring if desired.- Soil: Scleranthus Perennis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may become leggy if grown in too much shade.- Hardiness Zones: Scleranthus Perennis is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scleranthus Perennis is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-draining soil or overwatered. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
Scleranthus Perennis is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It typically grows in dry, rocky habitats, such as cliffs, crevices, and stony meadows. This plant is well-adapted to harsh growing conditions, and it can withstand drought and extreme temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Scleranthus Perennis a good ground cover plant?
A: Yes, Scleranthus Perennis is a great ground cover plant that can be used to fill in gaps between pavers or in rock gardens.
Q: How often should I water Scleranthus Perennis?
A: Water Scleranthus Perennis deeply once a week, or more often during hot and dry weather.
Q: Can Scleranthus Perennis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Scleranthus Perennis can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How long does Scleranthus Perennis bloom?
A: Scleranthus Perennis typically blooms in late spring to early summer.
Related Plants
– Sagina Subulata- Arenaria Montana- Cerastium Tomentosum- Dianthus Gratianopolitanus- Silene Acaulis
References
– “Scleranthus perennis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 3, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=259414.- “Scleranthus perennis.” PlantFiles. Accessed August 3, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/59575/.- “Scleranthus perennis.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 3, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/9217/Scleranthus-perennis/Details.
