Contents
Description
Sphallerocarpus is a genus of flowering plants that belong to the family Asteraceae. It consists of approximately 15 species that are native to southern Africa. The name Sphallerocarpus is derived from Greek words “sphaleros” meaning “deceitful” and “karpos” meaning “fruit”. This name refers to the fact that the fruits of these plants are not true fruits but rather achenes that are enclosed within the involucre.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Sphallerocarpus |
Appearance
Sphallerocarpus plants are herbaceous perennials that grow up to 30 cm in height. Their leaves are simple, alternate, and sometimes lobed or toothed. The flowers are arranged in heads that are usually solitary on long stalks. Each head consists of both ray and disk florets that are yellow or orange in color. The involucre that surrounds the achenes is also yellow or orange and has bracts that are arranged in several rows. The achenes are small and oval-shaped, and they have a pappus of bristles that aid in wind dispersal.
Care Guide
Sphallerocarpus plants are easy to care for and are relatively low maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for them:
- Water: Sphallerocarpus plants prefer well-draining soil that is kept evenly moist. Water them regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and midsummer to promote healthy growth and blooming.
- Soil: Sphallerocarpus plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Add compost or peat moss to the soil to improve its quality.
- Sunlight: Sphallerocarpus plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in leggy growth and fewer blooms.
- Hardiness Zones: Sphallerocarpus plants are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sphallerocarpus plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet or poorly drained. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect Sphallerocarpus plants:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of Sphallerocarpus plants, causing them to wilt and deform.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves, as well as webbing on the plant.
- Root Rot: This fungal disease can cause the roots of Sphallerocarpus plants to rot, leading to wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth.
Habitat
Sphallerocarpus plants are native to southern Africa, where they grow in grasslands and rocky areas. They prefer well-draining soil and are adapted to dry conditions. Some species of Sphallerocarpus are also found in the fynbos biome, a unique vegetation type that is characterized by a high diversity of plant species.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Sphallerocarpus plants good for containers?
A: Yes, Sphallerocarpus plants can be grown in containers as long as they have well-draining soil and are watered regularly.
Q: Do Sphallerocarpus plants attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Sphallerocarpus plants are attractive to bees and butterflies, which help to pollinate the flowers.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Sphallerocarpus plants?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and midsummer to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Q: Can Sphallerocarpus plants tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Sphallerocarpus plants are adapted to dry conditions and can tolerate some drought. However, they prefer to be kept evenly moist.
Related Plants
- Arctotis
- Osteospermum
- Gazania
- Dimorphotheca
References
- PlantZAfrica.com. (n.d.). Sphallerocarpus. Retrieved from https://pza.sanbi.org/sphallerocarpus/
- Wikipedia. (2021, July 7). Sphallerocarpus. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sphallerocarpus
