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Description
Zaluzianskya Pulvinata, also known as the cushion bush or mauve-flowered zaluzianskya, is a small, evergreen perennial plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family and is widely cultivated for its fragrant, mauve-colored flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. The plant grows up to 30cm in height and 50cm in width, forming low mounds of foliage that are densely packed with small, gray-green leaves.
Taxonomic Information
Domain: Eukarya
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Spermatophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Genus: Zaluzianskya
Appearance
Zaluzianskya Pulvinata is a compact, low-growing plant that forms a dense cushion of foliage. The leaves are small, gray-green, and hairy, measuring up to 2cm in length. The plant produces fragrant, mauve-colored flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. The flowers are star-shaped, measuring up to 2cm in diameter, and are borne in clusters at the tips of short stems. The petals are slightly toothed and have a delicate, papery texture. The flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators and emit a sweet, honey-like scent that intensifies in the evening.
Care Guide
Zaluzianskya Pulvinata is a relatively low-maintenance plant that thrives in well-draining soil and full sun. It requires moderate watering, with the soil kept evenly moist during the growing season. The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. It prefers a slightly acidic soil pH of 6.0 to 6.5 and can be grown in hardiness zones 9 to 11. To keep the plant compact and bushy, it can be pruned lightly after flowering.
Common Pests & Diseases
Zaluzianskya Pulvinata is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or grown in poorly-draining soil. Spider mites and whiteflies may occasionally infest the plant, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Zaluzianskya Pulvinata is native to the Eastern Cape and Western Cape regions of South Africa, where it grows in rocky, well-drained soils in full sun. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and heat, making it an ideal choice for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Zaluzianskya Pulvinata a frost-tolerant plant?
A: No, it is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from frost in colder regions.Q: Can Zaluzianskya Pulvinata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives sufficient sunlight.Q: How often should Zaluzianskya Pulvinata be fertilized?
A: It should be fertilized every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.Q: How often should Zaluzianskya Pulvinata be pruned?
A: It can be lightly pruned after flowering to maintain its compact, bushy shape.
Related Plants
- Zaluzianskya Capensis
- Zaluzianskya Odorata
- Zaluzianskya Villosa
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/zaluzianskya-pulvinata-mauve-flowered-zaluzianskya
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/star-flower/growing-zaluzianskya-cushion-bush.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/133093/zaluzianskya-pulvinata/details
