Contents
Description
Selago is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Scrophulariaceae. It is a small, evergreen shrub that grows up to 50 cm tall. Selago has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, and it is believed to have some mysterious healing properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Selago |
Appearance
Selago has small, narrow, lance-shaped leaves that grow up to 2 cm long. The leaves are dark green and glossy, and they are arranged in opposite pairs along the stem. The flowers are small and tubular, and they are usually white or pale pink in color. The plant blooms in the summer, and the flowers are followed by small, round, black fruits.
Care Guide
Selago is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. It can tolerate partial shade but thrives in full sun. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Water: Water Selago moderately, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization: Feed Selago with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil: Selago prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
Sunlight: Selago thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Selago is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Selago is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Selago is native to South Africa and can be found growing in rocky areas, on hillsides, and in scrublands. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Selago poisonous?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that Selago is poisonous.
Q: Can Selago be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Selago can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with enough light and well-draining soil.
Q: Is Selago an endangered species?
A: Some species of Selago are considered endangered due to habitat loss and over-harvesting for medicinal purposes.
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Selago?
A: Selago has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as headaches, fever, and respiratory infections. However, more research is needed to determine its efficacy.
Related Plants
- Selago serrata
- Selago densiflora
- Selago galpinii
- Selago corymbosa
References
- https://www.biodiversitylibrary.org/page/10901940
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0367326X10000499
- https://www.worldcat.org/title/southern-african-wild-flowers/oclc/224431501
