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Description
Strophostyles Leiosperma, commonly known as the smoothseed velvetbean, is a species of flowering plant in the legume family, Fabaceae. It is native to the southeastern United States, where it can be found in dry open woods, fields, and along roadsides. This plant is an annual vine that can grow up to 6 feet long and is typically found in sandy or loamy soils.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Strophostyles |
Appearance
The smoothseed velvetbean has a distinctive appearance, with leaves that are palmately compound with three leaflets. The leaflets are typically ovate to elliptic in shape and have a smooth surface. The flowers of this plant are small and pink, and they are arranged in clusters along the stem. The fruit of the plant is a pod that is covered in velvety hairs and contains one or two seeds.
Care Guide
To care for Strophostyles Leiosperma, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilization, soil, and sunlight. This plant prefers well-drained soils and should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilization can be done with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The smoothseed velvetbean is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
Strophostyles Leiosperma is native to the southeastern United States, where it can be found in dry open woods, fields, and along roadsides. It prefers sandy or loamy soils and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Strophostyles Leiosperma toxic to pets?
A: There are no known toxic effects of this plant on pets.
Q: Can Strophostyles Leiosperma be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with adequate space and support to grow.
Q: Does Strophostyles Leiosperma attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the flowers of this plant attract bees and butterflies, which help to pollinate the plant.
Q: When is the best time to plant Strophostyles Leiosperma?
A: This plant is typically planted in the spring after the last frost date in the area.
Related Plants
- Strophostyles helvola
- Strophostyles leiosperma
- Strophostyles umbellata
References
- “Strophostyles Leiosperma – (Torr. & A. Gray) Piper Smoothseed Velvetbean.” USDA Plants Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=stle9.
- “Strophostyles Leiosperma.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – The University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=STLE9.
- “Strophostyles Leiosperma.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b623.
