Contents
Description
Steganotaenia is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Apiaceae. It is native to tropical Africa and Madagascar. The genus comprises of about 15 species of herbs and small trees. Some of the common species of Steganotaenia include Steganotaenia araliacea, Steganotaenia kerstingii, Steganotaenia ternata, and Steganotaenia viburnifolia. The plants are also known as African celery, wild celery, or water parsley.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Steganotaenia |
Appearance
The plants of Steganotaenia have alternate, pinnately compound leaves that are dark green in color. The leaflets are oval or lance-shaped and can be finely serrated. The plants produce small, greenish-white flowers in clusters that are arranged in umbels. The fruits are small, dry and have two seeds. The plants grow up to 6 feet (2 meters) tall and have a bushy appearance.
Care Guide
Steganotaenia plants grow well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They prefer full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a variety of soil types. The plants need regular watering during dry periods and require fertilization once a month during the growing season. The hardiness zones for Steganotaenia plants are 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Steganotaenia plants are susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. They can also be affected by spider mites and aphids. To prevent these pests and diseases, it is important to maintain good hygiene practices and avoid overcrowding of plants. Use fungicides and insecticides as necessary.
Habitat
Steganotaenia plants are native to tropical Africa and Madagascar. They grow in moist areas, such as riverbanks, swamps, and wetlands. They are also sometimes cultivated as ornamental plants, especially in tropical and subtropical regions.
Question and Answer
Q1: What is the common name of Steganotaenia plants?
A1: The common names are African celery, wild celery, or water parsley.
Q2: What are the hardiness zones for Steganotaenia plants?
A2: The hardiness zones are 9-11.
Q3: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Steganotaenia plants?
A3: Steganotaenia plants can be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, root rot, spider mites, and aphids.
Q4: What kind of soil do Steganotaenia plants prefer?
A4: Steganotaenia plants prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Related Plants
- Angelica
- Celery
- Carrot
- Parsley
References
- African Plants Database – Steganotaenia
- Steganotaenia – Plants of the World Online
- A Field Guide to the Plants of East Africa – A. R. O. Moller
