Contents
Description
Smithia Ciliata, commonly known as the Fringed Smithia, is a plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is an annual herb that grows up to 60cm tall. It is native to India and widespread in the tropical regions of Asia.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Smithia |
Appearance
The Fringed Smithia has green, smooth, and slender stems. The leaves are small, linear, and covered with fine hairs. The flowers are yellow and have five petals, and they bloom from September to December. The fruit is a pod that is about 1.5cm long and contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Water: The Fringed Smithia prefers moist soil, so it needs to be watered regularly. However, it is important not to overwater the plant.Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer can be added to the soil once or twice a year.Soil: The Fringed Smithia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant requires full sun exposure to grow properly.Hardiness Zones: The Fringed Smithia is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Fringed Smithia is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. To prevent infestations, it is important to keep the plant clean and remove any dead or damaged leaves. The plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and powdery mildew.
Habitat
The Fringed Smithia is native to India and is widespread in the tropical regions of Asia. It grows in open areas, fields, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Fringed Smithia a perennial or an annual plant?
A: The Fringed Smithia is an annual plant.Q: What is the ideal soil pH for the Fringed Smithia?
A: The ideal soil pH for the Fringed Smithia is between 6.0 and 7.0.Q: Can the Fringed Smithia grow in partial shade?
A: The Fringed Smithia requires full sun exposure to grow properly.Q: How often should the Fringed Smithia be fertilized?
A: The Fringed Smithia does not require frequent fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer can be added to the soil once or twice a year.
Related Plants
- Smithia conferta
- Smithia sensitiva
- Smithia hirsuta
References
- https://www.gbif.org/species/3032983
- https://www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Fringed%20Smithia.html
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/smithia/growing-smithia.htm
- https://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/duke_energy/Smithia_ciliata.html
