Contents
Description
Stylidium Soboliferum is a unique plant species that belongs to the Stylidiaceae family, commonly known as the trigger plant family. It is native to Australia and is found in the southwestern corner of Western Australia. The plant is small, with a height of only 10-20 cm, and has a basal rosette of leaves that are hairless and green in color. The leaves are narrow and taper towards the end, with a length of 3-7 cm and a width of 1-2 mm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Stylidiaceae |
| Genus | Stylidium |
Appearance
Stylidium Soboliferum is a small plant with a basal rosette of leaves that are green and hairless. The leaves are narrow and taper towards the end, with a length of 3-7 cm and a width of 1-2 mm. The flowers are pink or purple in color and are held on long, slender stems that can reach up to 30 cm in height. The flowers are small, only 5-8 mm in size, and are composed of five petals that are fused together to form a tube. The petals have a unique trigger mechanism that is used to trap insects that visit the flower for nectar.
Care Guide
Stylidium Soboliferum is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers a well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in zones 9-11. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the plant back after flowering to encourage bushier growth.
Water
Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out between watering to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Use a fertilizer that is high in potassium to promote flowering.
Soil
Stylidium Soboliferum prefers a well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Use a soil mix that is high in organic matter, such as peat moss or compost.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Place the plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Stylidium Soboliferum is hardy in zones 9-11. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is not frost tolerant.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stylidium Soboliferum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Make sure to allow the soil to dry out between watering to prevent this from happening.
Habitat
Stylidium Soboliferum is native to Australia and is found in the southwestern corner of Western Australia. It grows in sandy or gravelly soils in open woodland and heathland habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Stylidium Soboliferum a hardy plant?
A: Yes, Stylidium Soboliferum is hardy in zones 9-11.
Q: Does Stylidium Soboliferum prefer full sun or partial shade?
A: Stylidium Soboliferum prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: How often should I fertilize Stylidium Soboliferum?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the unique feature of Stylidium Soboliferum’s flowers?
A: The petals of Stylidium Soboliferum’s flowers have a trigger mechanism that is used to trap insects that visit the flower for nectar.
Related Plants
- Stylidium Adnatum
- Stylidium Affine
- Stylidium Amabile
- Stylidium Armeria
- Stylidium Asperum
References
- https://www.anbg.gov.au/stylidiaceae/stylidium-soboliferum.html
- https://www.gardeningwithangus.com.au/stylidium-soboliferum-trigger-plant/
- https://www.australianplants.com/plants.aspx?id=1534
- https://www.rareplants.net.au/shop/product/stylidium-soboliferum/
