Contents
Description
Selago Eckloniana, also known as the Blue Stars, is a South African perennial plant that belongs to the family of Ericaceae. The plant was first described by Christian Friedrich Ecklon and Carl Ludwig Philipp Zeyher in 1836. It is commonly found in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal provinces of South Africa. The plant is known for its beautiful blue flowers that bloom in the summer season.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Selago |
Appearance
Selago Eckloniana is a small, evergreen shrub that can grow up to 60 cm tall. The plant has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are 2-3 cm long and 3-4 mm wide. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and are a dark green color. The plant produces small blue flowers that grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The flowers are bell-shaped and have five petals that are 4-6 mm long.
Care Guide
To ensure healthy growth of Selago Eckloniana, follow these care guidelines:
Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is kept evenly moist. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) to promote healthy growth.
Soil: Selago Eckloniana prefers well-draining, acidic soil with a pH between 5.5-6.5. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve its texture and fertility.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In areas with hot summers, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.
Hardiness Zones: Selago Eckloniana is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Selago Eckloniana is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it may sometimes be affected by spider mites, aphids, or root rot. To prevent these problems, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil, watered properly, and receives adequate sunlight and air circulation.
Habitat
Selago Eckloniana is native to South Africa and is commonly found in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. The plant grows in rocky areas, along streams, and in grassy fields. It prefers well-draining soil and is adapted to hot, dry summers and mild winters.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the blooming season for Selago Eckloniana?
A: Selago Eckloniana blooms in the summer season (December to February in the southern hemisphere).
Q: Can Selago Eckloniana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Selago Eckloniana can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives adequate sunlight and water.
Q: How often should Selago Eckloniana be fertilized?
A: Selago Eckloniana should be fertilized once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: Is Selago Eckloniana poisonous?
A: No, Selago Eckloniana is not poisonous to humans or animals.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Selago Eckloniana:
- Selago densa
- Selago corymbosa
- Selago hirta
- Selago serrata
References
- Encyclopedia of Life. (n.d.). Selago Eckloniana. Retrieved from https://eol.org/pages/1140550
- Gardening Know How. (n.d.). Blue Stars Plant Info: Tips For Growing Blue Star Plants. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/blue-star-plant/blue-stars-plant-info.htm
- PlantZAfrica. (n.d.). Selago Eckloniana. Retrieved from http://pza.sanbi.org/selago-eckloniana
