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Description
Stillingia Linearifolia, commonly known as pencil flower, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is native to Central America and can be found in various countries such as Belize, Honduras, and Nicaragua. The plant produces small white flowers that bloom in the summer and fall. The leaves and stem of the plant contain a milky sap that can cause skin irritation and is toxic if ingested.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Stillingia |
Appearance
The Stillingia Linearifolia plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Its leaves are linear-shaped, measuring 1-3 inches long and ΒΌ inch wide, with a pointed tip. The plant produces small white flowers that bloom in the summer and fall. The flowers are arranged in clusters along the stem and are followed by small, spherical seed capsules. The stem and leaves of the plant contain a milky sap.
Care Guide
Water: Pencil flower plants prefer well-drained soil and require moderate watering. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: Pencil flower plants prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Stillingia Linearifolia plants are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Stillingia Linearifolia plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies. If an infestation occurs, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Stillingia Linearifolia plant is native to Central America and can be found in countries such as Belize, Honduras, and Nicaragua. It grows in a variety of habitats, including dry forests, savannas, and disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the sap of the Stillingia Linearifolia plant toxic?
A: Yes, the sap of the Stillingia Linearifolia plant is toxic if ingested and can cause skin irritation.
Q: How tall can the Stillingia Linearifolia plant grow?
A: The Stillingia Linearifolia plant can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Q: What type of soil does the Stillingia Linearifolia plant prefer?
A: The Stillingia Linearifolia plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for the Stillingia Linearifolia plant?
A: Stillingia Linearifolia plants are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Stillingia sanguinolenta
- Stillingia tenuis
- Stillingia texana
- Stillingia umbellata
References
- “Stillingia linearifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=288988&isprofile=1.
- “Stillingia linearifolia.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/stillinline.htm.
- “Stillingia linearifolia.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, www.kew.org/wcsp/namedetail.do?name_id=202491.
