Contents
Description
Selliera is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Goodeniaceae. It is native to New Zealand and Australia, where it grows in damp, sandy soils near the coast. The plant is also known by the common names Goodenia, Swamp Weed, and Bog Moss.Selliera is a low-growing plant that has creeping stems and small, rounded leaves. The flowers are white or pinkish and are produced in clusters. The plant is often used as a ground cover in gardens and is popular because of its attractive appearance and hardiness.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukaryota |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Spermatophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Asterales |
Family | Goodeniaceae |
Genus | Selliera |
Appearance
Selliera has small, round leaves that are about 1-3 cm in diameter. The leaves are a glossy green color and are arranged in pairs on the stem. The stems are thin and creeping, with the plant growing to a height of about 10-15 cm.The flowers of Selliera are white or pinkish and are produced in clusters at the end of the stems. The flowers are about 1 cm in diameter and have five petals. The plant blooms from spring to summer.
Care Guide
Water: Selliera prefers moist soil, but it is important not to overwater the plant as it can cause root rot. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Selliera does not require much fertilization. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Selliera prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is important to avoid heavy clay soils as they can cause the plant to rot.Sunlight: Selliera prefers full sun to partial shade. In areas with hot summers, it is recommended to provide some shade during the afternoon.Hardiness Zones: Selliera is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Selliera is generally a hardy plant that is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet. It is also important to watch out for snails and slugs, which can damage the plant.
Habitat
Selliera is native to New Zealand and Australia, where it grows in damp, sandy soils near the coast. The plant is often found in salt marshes, estuaries, and other wetland habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Selliera be grown indoors?
A: Selliera is a plant that prefers to grow outdoors in full sun to partial shade. It is not recommended to grow it indoors.Q: Is Selliera a good ground cover?
A: Yes, Selliera is a great ground cover plant. It has a low-growing habit and can quickly spread to cover large areas.Q: How often should I water Selliera?
A: Selliera prefers moist soil, but it is important not to overwater the plant. Water it when the soil feels dry to the touch.Q: What is the best time of year to plant Selliera?
A: The best time to plant Selliera is in the spring, after the danger of frost has passed.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:
- Goodenia
- Dampiera
- Lechenaultia
- Scaevola
- Brachyscome
References
- “Selliera.” PlantNet. Accessed September 23, 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=gn&name=Selliera.
- “Selliera.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 23, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/23181/selliera/details.
- “Selliera.” San Francisco Botanical Garden. Accessed September 23, 2021. https://www.sfbotanicalgarden.org/plant-month/2019/selliera.html.