Contents
Description
Spergularia Rubra, also known as Red Sandspurry, is a small annual or perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is native to Europe but can now be found in many other parts of the world, including North America, Asia, and Australia. It grows up to 15cm in height and has small, pink flowers that bloom from May to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Spergularia |
Appearance
Spergularia Rubra has a slender stem, which is usually green, but can also be reddish in color. The leaves are narrow, linear, and can grow up to 2cm in length. The flowers are small, with five pink petals that are deeply notched, giving them a fringed appearance. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem, and each flower is about 5mm in diameter. The plant produces small, round seeds that are about 1mm in diameter and are black or brown in color.
Care Guide
Spergularia Rubra is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and does not require much water, but it should be watered regularly during the growing season. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of fertilizer can help promote growth. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Spergularia Rubra is generally not affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if it is planted in poorly-drained soil. Aphids may occasionally attack the plant, but they can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Spergularia Rubra is commonly found in sandy or gravelly soils, such as those found in coastal areas, dunes, and disturbed sites. It can also be found in meadows, pastures, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Spergularia Rubra a perennial or annual plant?
A: It can be either an annual or perennial plant.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Spergularia Rubra?
A: Spergularia Rubra is hardy to USDA zones 4-9.
Q: Does Spergularia Rubra require a lot of water?
A: No, Spergularia Rubra is drought-tolerant and does not require much water.
Q: What pests can attack Spergularia Rubra?
A: Aphids may occasionally attack the plant, but they can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Related Plants
- Spergularia Bocconei
- Spergularia Canadensis
- Spergularia Maritima
- Spergularia Media
References
- “Spergularia Rubra (L.) J. Presl & C. Presl”, Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed August 5, 2021.
- “Spergularia Rubra”, Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 5, 2021.
- “Spergularia Rubra”, The Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 5, 2021.
