Soliva Anthemifolia: A Comprehensive Guide
Contents
Description
Contents
Description
Soliva Anthemifolia, also known as Acmella grandiflora, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South America and can be found in countries such as Brazil, Peru, and Bolivia. The plant has small yellow flowers that bloom in clusters and are surrounded by green leaves. It is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat dental pain, throat infections, and fever. The plant’s leaves and flowers contain spilanthol, a natural anesthetic that can numb the mouth and reduce pain.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Soliva |
Appearance
Soliva Anthemifolia is a small, herbaceous plant that grows up to 30 cm in height. Its leaves are green and have serrated edges. The plant’s flowers are small, yellow, and have a button-like appearance. They bloom in clusters and are surrounded by green bracts. The flowers have a distinctive spicy taste and can cause a tingling sensation in the mouth when consumed. The plant’s seeds are small, brown, and have a triangular shape.
Care Guide
Soliva Anthemifolia is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The plant requires moderate watering. It should be watered once a week, or when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. It can be fertilized once a month with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal for this plant.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It should be placed in a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Soliva Anthemifolia can be grown in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Soliva Anthemifolia is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to the following pests and diseases:
- Aphids: These small insects can feed on the plant’s sap and cause stunted growth and leaf curling. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and bronzing of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the plant’s leaves. It can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and maintaining good air circulation.
Habitat
Soliva Anthemifolia is native to South America and can be found in countries such as Brazil, Peru, and Bolivia. It grows in open fields, along roadsides, and in disturbed areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Soliva Anthemifolia toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that Soliva Anthemifolia is toxic to pets. However, it is always best to keep plants out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
Q: Can Soliva Anthemifolia be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Soliva Anthemifolia can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a location that receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should Soliva Anthemifolia be fertilized?
A: Soliva Anthemifolia does not require frequent fertilization. It can be fertilized once a month with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Soliva Anthemifolia be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Soliva Anthemifolia can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer. The cuttings should be placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until they root.
Related Plants
- Acmella Oleracea
- Tagetes Lucida
- Spilanthes Acmella
References
- “Soliva Anthemifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e300.
- “Acmella Grandiflora.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:236800-1.
- “Soliva Anthemifolia.” Plantz Africa, plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/solivanthemifolia.htm.
