Contents
Description
Zaluzianskya Natalensis, commonly known as Night Phlox or Midnight Candy, is a perennial plant belonging to the Scrophulariaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its fragrant flowers that bloom at night. The plant typically grows up to a height of 30-40 cm and has a spread of about 20-30 cm. It is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow in gardens and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Zaluzianskya |
Appearance
Zaluzianskya Natalensis has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are green in color and grow up to 4-6 cm in length. The flowers are trumpet-shaped, about 2-3 cm in diameter, and have five petals that are fused at the base. The flowers are white in color and have a sweet fragrance that becomes more intense at night. The plant blooms from late spring to early fall and attracts pollinators like moths and butterflies.
Care Guide
Zaluzianskya Natalensis is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow in gardens and containers. Here are some tips for its care:
- Water: The plant requires moderate watering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH (5.5-6.5).
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Zaluzianskya Natalensis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, or powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant in well-ventilated and dry conditions. In case of infestation, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.
Habitat
Zaluzianskya Natalensis is native to South Africa and is found in rocky areas, grasslands, and scrublands. It prefers well-draining soils with a slightly acidic pH and can tolerate moderate drought conditions. The plant is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and containers due to its fragrant flowers that bloom at night.
Question and Answer
Q. Can Zaluzianskya Natalensis be propagated from cuttings?
A. Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or early summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the cuttings in a shaded location until they establish roots.
Q. How often should I fertilize Zaluzianskya Natalensis?
A. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
Q. What is the best time to prune Zaluzianskya Natalensis?
A. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears to promote bushier growth and more flowers.
Q. How often should I water Zaluzianskya Natalensis?
A. Water the plant moderately, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
Related Plants
- Zaluzianskya Capensis
- Zaluzianskya Microsiphon
- Zaluzianskya Villosa
References
- “Zaluzianskya Natalensis (Night Phlox).” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantwxyz/zaluziansknat.htm.
- “Zaluzianskya Natalensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=284704.
- “Zaluzianskya.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 11 Jan. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zaluzianskya.
