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Description
Stellaria Crassifolia, also known as Thickleaf Starwort, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is native to the western United States, particularly in the Great Basin and Rocky Mountains region. This plant usually grows in moist and shady areas, such as meadows, streambanks, and forest clearings.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Stellaria |
Appearance
Stellaria Crassifolia has small, white, star-shaped flowers that bloom from May to August. Its leaves are ovate or lanceolate, and have a thick and fleshy texture. The stems of this plant are erect and can grow up to 30 centimeters tall. Its roots are fibrous and shallow.
Care Guide
Stellaria Crassifolia is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:
- Water: This plant prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly. However, avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Stellaria Crassifolia does not require frequent fertilization. You can add a slow-release fertilizer once a year during the growing season.
- Soil: This plant thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
- Sunlight: Stellaria Crassifolia prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some sunlight, but too much can cause its leaves to wilt.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stellaria Crassifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to curl and turn yellow. You can control aphids by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant, leaving behind slime trails. You can control slugs and snails by handpicking them or using a slug bait.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root rot, which can lead to wilting and death of the plant. To prevent root rot, make sure to water the plant only when the top inch of soil is dry.
Habitat
Stellaria Crassifolia is native to the western United States, particularly in the Great Basin and Rocky Mountains region. It usually grows in moist and shady areas, such as meadows, streambanks, and forest clearings. It can also be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and agricultural fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Stellaria Crassifolia grow in full sunlight?
A: Stellaria Crassifolia prefers partial shade to full shade. Too much sunlight can cause its leaves to wilt.
Q: How often should I water Stellaria Crassifolia?
A: Stellaria Crassifolia prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly. However, avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Stellaria Crassifolia?
A: Stellaria Crassifolia is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Q: Is Stellaria Crassifolia toxic to pets?
A: Stellaria Crassifolia is not known to be toxic to pets.
Related Plants
- Stellaria Alsine
- Stellaria Aquatica
- Stellaria Graminea
- Stellaria Holostea
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Stellaria crassifolia. Retrieved September 14, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280772&isprofile=0&pt=2
- Utah State University Extension. (n.d.). Thickleaf starwort. Retrieved September 14, 2021, from https://extension.usu.edu/rangeplants/forbsherbaceous/stellaria-crassifolia
