Contents
Description
Strumaria is a genus of flowering plants in the Amaryllidaceae family, native to South Africa. It comprises about 28 species of bulbous plants that produce showy flowers that range in color from white to pink, purple, or blue. The name Strumaria is derived from the Greek word “stroma,” which means a bed or cushion, referring to the cushion-like base of the flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Strumaria |
Appearance
Strumaria plants range in size from 10 to 30 cm in height and produce long, narrow leaves that are often twisted or curved. The flowers are borne on tall, slender stalks and have six petals that are fused at the base to form a funnel-shaped tube. The flowers are often fragrant and can be up to 5 cm in diameter. The color of the flowers varies depending on the species but is usually white, pink, purple or blue.
Care Guide
Water: Strumaria plants prefer well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plants regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering during the dormant period.
Fertilization: Fertilize Strumaria plants with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil: Strumaria plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix that is half sand and half peat moss or compost is ideal.
Sunlight: Strumaria plants prefer full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Strumaria plants are hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Strumaria plants are relatively pest-free, but they can be susceptible to bulb rot if the soil is too wet. Overwatering can also lead to fungal diseases like powdery mildew or leaf spot. Aphids and mealybugs may occasionally attack the plants, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Strumaria plants are native to South Africa and are found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and rocky slopes. They thrive in well-draining soils and are adapted to drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Strumaria plant?
A: Water your Strumaria plant regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering during the dormant period.
Q: What is the ideal soil mix for Strumaria plants?
A: A soil mix that is half sand and half peat moss or compost is ideal for Strumaria plants.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Strumaria plants?
A: Strumaria plants can be susceptible to bulb rot, fungal diseases like powdery mildew or leaf spot, and occasional attacks by aphids or mealybugs.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Strumaria plants?
A: Strumaria plants are hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Related Plants
- Clivia
- Amaryllis
- Nerine
- Lycoris
References
- “Strumaria.” Pacific Bulb Society, 2019. Accessed 24 August 2021. https://www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/Strumaria
- “Strumaria.” PlantZAfrica.com, 2021. Accessed 24 August 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/strumaria
- “Strumaria.” Royal Horticultural Society, 2021. Accessed 24 August 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10602/strumaria/details
