Stylidium Dilatatum, commonly known as the Triggerplant, is a fascinating plant that belongs to the Stylidiaceae family. It is native to Australia and is found in many parts of the country. The plant is named after the unique mechanism of pollination, which involves a trigger-like movement of the flowers. The flowers of the Stylidium Dilatatum are highly attractive and have a beautiful pinkish-purple color.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Stylidiaceae |
| Genus | Stylidium |
Appearance
The Stylidium Dilatatum is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 60 cm in height. It has long, narrow leaves that are arranged in a basal rosette. The flowers are clustered at the top of the stem and have a distinctive pinkish-purple color. The petals are fused together to form a tube-like structure, which opens up when triggered by an insect. The plant has a deep taproot system that allows it to grow in a range of soil types.
Care Guide
The Stylidium Dilatatum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought. Water it regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant can grow in a range of soil types, but prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The Stylidium Dilatatum prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Stylidium Dilatatum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Pests such as aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, but can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Stylidium Dilatatum is native to Australia and can be found in many parts of the country, including New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland. It grows in a range of habitats, including heathlands, woodlands, and grasslands. The plant is well adapted to the dry and arid conditions of the Australian landscape and can tolerate periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Stylidium Dilatatum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives plenty of sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Stylidium Dilatatum?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the trigger-like mechanism of pollination in the Stylidium Dilatatum?
A: When an insect touches the trigger-like appendage on the flower, the filaments and stamens are thrust out, depositing pollen on the insect’s body.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Stylidium Dilatatum?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Related Plants
- Stylidium Adnatum
- Stylidium Deplanchei
- Stylidium Gracile
- Stylidium Scabridum
References
- “Stylidium dilatatum.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). Accessed on 9 September 2021. https://anpsa.org.au/s-dil.html
- “Stylidium dilatatum.” Florabase. Accessed on 9 September 2021. https://florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/18840
- “Stylidium dilatatum.” PlantNET – NSW Flora Online. Accessed on 9 September 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Stylidium~dilatatum
