Weymouthia

Description

Weymouthia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Saxifragaceae. It is native to forests in western North America, where it grows on moist, shaded slopes and along streams. The genus was named after Captain George Weymouth, an English explorer who visited New England in 1605.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Saxifragales
Family	Saxifragaceae
Genus	Weymouthia

Appearance

Weymouthia is a small, herbaceous plant that grows to a height of 10-20 cm. It has basal leaves that are long-petioled, round or kidney-shaped, and have toothed margins. The leaves are typically green, although some species may have reddish or purplish tints. The flowers are small and white, appearing in late spring or early summer. They are held on thin, wiry stems that rise above the foliage.

Care Guide

Weymouthia is a relatively easy plant to grow, but it does require some specific care to thrive. Here are some tips:

• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
• Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
• Soil: Weymouthia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Grow in partial to full shade. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the foliage.
• Hardiness Zones: Weymouthia is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Weymouthia is generally pest and disease-free, but it can sometimes be affected by the following:

• Slugs and snails: These pests can cause damage to the foliage. Use slug bait or handpick them off the plant.
• Powdery mildew: A fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Remove affected leaves and treat with a fungicide.

Habitat

Weymouthia is native to western North America, where it grows in moist, shaded forests and along streams. It is most commonly found in the Pacific Northwest, from British Columbia to northern California.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Weymouthia be grown indoors?

A: While Weymouthia prefers to grow outdoors, it can be grown indoors in bright, indirect light.

Q: How often should I fertilize Weymouthia?

A: Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

Q: Does Weymouthia require pruning?

A: Weymouthia does not require pruning, but you can remove dead or yellowing leaves as needed.

Q: Can Weymouthia tolerate drought?

A: Weymouthia prefers consistently moist soil and may not tolerate prolonged periods of drought.

Related Plants

• Saxifraga
• Heuchera
• Tiarella
• Mitella

References

• Flora of North America: Weymouthia
• RHS: Weymouthia hederacea
• Missouri Botanical Garden: Weymouthia