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Description
Spatalla Setacea, commonly known as Bristle-leaved Spatalla, is a perennial evergreen shrub that belongs to the family Proteaceae. It is native to the Western Cape of South Africa and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The plant has a woody stem with long, narrow leaves that are covered in bristly hairs, which give the plant its unique appearance. The flowers of Spatalla Setacea are small and come in clusters that are greenish-yellow in color. The plant blooms from late winter to early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Proteales |
| Family | Proteaceae |
| Genus | Spatalla |
| Species | Setacea |
Appearance
Spatalla Setacea has a unique appearance due to its long, narrow leaves that are covered in bristly hairs. The leaves are dark green in color and grow up to 20 centimeters long. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and has a woody stem. The flowers of Spatalla Setacea are small and come in clusters that are greenish-yellow in color. The plant blooms from late winter to early spring.
Care Guide
When caring for Spatalla Setacea, it is important to keep in mind the plant’s water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones.
Water: Spatalla Setacea prefers well-draining soil and does not tolerate standing water. Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilization: Spatalla Setacea does not require fertilization, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to encourage growth.
Soil: Spatalla Setacea prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. You can amend the soil with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
Sunlight: Spatalla Setacea prefers full sun to partial shade. However, it can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates.
Hardiness Zones: Spatalla Setacea can tolerate temperatures down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit and is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Spatalla Setacea is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To avoid this, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant.
Habitat
Spatalla Setacea is native to the Western Cape of South Africa and can be found growing in fynbos and renosterveld vegetation. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Spatalla Setacea poisonous?
A: There is no evidence that Spatalla Setacea is poisonous to humans or animals.
Q: Can Spatalla Setacea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Spatalla Setacea can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is watered properly.
Q: How often should Spatalla Setacea be fertilized?
A: Spatalla Setacea does not require fertilization, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to encourage growth.
Q: How often should Spatalla Setacea be pruned?
A: Spatalla Setacea does not require regular pruning. You can remove any dead or damaged branches as needed.
Related Plants
- Spatalla Albescens
- Spatalla Breviflora
- Spatalla Capensis
- Spatalla Crenata
References
- “Spatalla Setacea.” Pacific Horticulture. https://www.pacifichorticulture.org/articles/spatalla-setacea/
- “Spatalla Setacea.” South African National Biodiversity Institute. http://pza.sanbi.org/spatalla-setacea
- “Spatalla Setacea.” PlantZAfrica. http://pza.sanbi.org/spatalla-setacea
