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Description
Strumpfia Maritima, commonly known as Seacliff Strumpfia, is a flowering plant belonging to the family Rubiaceae. It is a small shrub that grows up to 2-3 feet tall and wide, with glossy, dark green leaves and clusters of small, white, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in summer. This plant is native to coastal regions of California and Baja California, Mexico, and is commonly found growing on rocky cliffs and bluffs along the coast.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Strumpfia |
Appearance
Strumpfia Maritima is a compact, evergreen shrub with a dense, mounding habit. It has glossy, dark green leaves that are opposite and ovate to lanceolate in shape, measuring about 1-2 inches long. The leaves are arranged in pairs along the stem and have smooth margins. The plant produces small, white, trumpet-shaped flowers that are about 1 inch wide and grow in clusters at the ends of the branches. The flowers bloom in summer and are followed by small, round, black fruits that are about 1/4 inch in diameter.
Care Guide
Strumpfia Maritima is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow in a variety of garden settings. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Strumpfia Maritima prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Water deeply once or twice a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter months.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: Strumpfia Maritima prefers sandy or loamy soil that is well-drained and slightly acidic.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot, inland areas, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.- Hardiness Zones: Strumpfia Maritima is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Strumpfia Maritima is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it may occasionally be affected by spider mites or aphids. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly-drained soil.
Habitat
Strumpfia Maritima is native to coastal areas of California and Baja California, Mexico, where it grows on rocky cliffs and bluffs near the ocean. It is well-suited to coastal gardens and can be used as a low hedge, ground cover, or accent plant in sunny, well-drained locations.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Strumpfia Maritima tolerate drought?
A: While this plant prefers moderate watering, it is fairly drought-tolerant once established and can survive with little supplemental water.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Strumpfia Maritima?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in early spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: Can I grow Strumpfia Maritima in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and is watered regularly.
Q: When is the best time to prune Strumpfia Maritima?
A: Prune this plant in late winter or early spring to shape it and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the family Rubiaceae:- Coffea arabica (Arabian coffee)- Gardenia jasminoides (Cape jasmine)- Ixora coccinea (Jungle geranium)- Pentas lanceolata (Egyptian star cluster)
References
– “Strumpfia Maritima.” San Marcos Growers.- “Strumpfia Maritima.” Las Pilitas Nursery.- “Strumpfia Maritima.” Sunset Western Garden Book, 9th Edition.
