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Description
Spermacoce Chaetocephala, commonly known as woolly head or woolly cap, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. The plant grows up to 60 cm in height, with leaves that are elliptical, hairy, and arranged opposite to each other.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Spermacoce |
Appearance
Spermacoce Chaetocephala has small, white, and fragrant flowers that grow in clusters at the end of its branches. The flowers have a tubular shape and are surrounded by a woolly calyx, which gives the plant its common name. The plant blooms from summer to autumn and produces small, black, and shiny fruits. The leaves of Spermacoce Chaetocephala are hairy, with a rough texture and a dark green color. The stems are also hairy and are covered with small, prickly hairs.
Care Guide
Water
Spermacoce Chaetocephala requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as the plant can be susceptible to root rot.
Fertilization
The plant can benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Soil
Spermacoce Chaetocephala grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sunlight
The plant requires full sun to partial shade, depending on the climate. In hot and dry climates, it prefers partial shade to protect it from the intense heat.
Hardiness Zones
Spermacoce Chaetocephala is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Spermacoce Chaetocephala is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies. It can also be affected by leaf spot and root rot.
Habitat
Spermacoce Chaetocephala is commonly found in grasslands, open woodlands, and disturbed areas in Southeast Asia. It is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Spermacoce Chaetocephala a good container plant?
A: Yes, Spermacoce Chaetocephala can be grown in containers, but it requires regular watering and fertilization.
Q: How often should I fertilize Spermacoce Chaetocephala?
A: The plant can benefit from regular fertilization every four to six weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Spermacoce Chaetocephala tolerate drought?
A: No, the plant requires regular watering and cannot tolerate drought conditions.
Q: Is Spermacoce Chaetocephala deer-resistant?
A: There is no evidence that Spermacoce Chaetocephala is deer-resistant.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Spermacoce genus include:
- Spermacoce articularis
- Spermacoce exilis
- Spermacoce hispida
- Spermacoce latifolia
References
- https://www.saraburibotanicgarden.com/our-plants/spermacoce-chaetocephala/
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/spermacoce-chaetocephala
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/spermacoce/spermacoce-chaetocephala.htm
