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Description
Tetraselago Natalensis, also known as Natal tetraselago, is a small evergreen shrub native to South Africa. It belongs to the family of Proteaceae and is known for its unique and beautiful flowers that bloom in the winter months. The plant has a slow growth rate and can reach up to 1 meter in height and 1.5 meters in width. It has a smooth green bark and produces dense foliage that is dark green in color. The leaves are leathery, simple, and elliptical in shape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Proteales |
| Family | Proteaceae |
| Genus | Tetraselago |
Appearance
Tetraselago Natalensis produces striking flowers that are pink and fragrant. They bloom in clusters and are about 2.5 cm in diameter. The flowers are followed by small woody seed capsules that are oval in shape and about 1 cm in length. The plant has a dense and bushy growth habit, with a rounded shape. The leaves are about 5-7 cm long and 2-3 cm wide, and grow in a spiral pattern around the stem. The plant is evergreen, with dark green leaves that have a glossy texture.
Care Guide
Tetraselago Natalensis requires well-draining soil, and regular watering during the growing season. It prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH of around 6.0 to 6.5. The plant does not need heavy fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade, and can tolerate temperatures down to -2°C. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tetraselago Natalensis is susceptible to root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. It is also prone to leaf spot and powdery mildew, which can be controlled by removing infected leaves and applying a fungicide. The plant is not usually affected by pests, but can sometimes be attacked by scale insects.
Habitat
Tetraselago Natalensis is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky and sandy soils in fynbos and renosterveld vegetation types. It is commonly found in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces, and can also be found in parts of KwaZulu-Natal.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Tetraselago Natalensis be grown indoors?
A: While it can be grown indoors, it prefers full sun and is best suited for outdoor growing.
Q: How often should Tetraselago Natalensis be watered?
A: The plant should be watered regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Tetraselago Natalensis require pruning?
A: The plant does not require heavy pruning, but can be lightly pruned to shape or to remove dead or damaged branches.
Q: Can Tetraselago Natalensis be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
- Tetraselago Maculata
- Tetraselago Kellermanii
- Tetraselago Monticola
References
- “Tetraselago Natalensis.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantstuv/tetrasnata.htm.
- “Tetraselago Natalensis.” Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, www.sanbi.org/plant-of-the-week/tetraselago-natalensis/.
- “Tetraselago Natalensis.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/tetraselago-natalensis.
