Origin and Common Names
Stackhousia intermedia is a flowering plant that is native to Australia. It is commonly referred to as the Australian Stackhousia or simply Stackhousia. The plant was first described by F.M. Bailey in the year 1893.
General Appearance
Stackhousia intermedia is a perennial plant that grows up to a height of 40 cm (16 inches). The leaves of the plant are narrow and pointed, measuring up to 2 cm long and 2 mm wide. The plant produces small, white flowers that bloom in summer, typically from November to January.
The flowers of the plant are borne on thin stems that rise above the foliage and measure up to 5 mm across. The flowers have five petals that are slightly curved backwards. The sepals of the flowers are green and slightly hairy. The plant also produces small capsules that contain the seeds.
Uses
The flowers of Stackhousia intermedia are delicate and fragrant, making them popular in the cut flower industry. In addition, the plant is often cultivated as an ornamental for its attractive foliage and flowers.
Stackhousia intermedia is also used in traditional medicine by the indigenous people of Australia for a variety of ailments. The plant is said to have antibacterial properties and is used to treat skin infections, cuts, and wounds. The leaves and stems are crushed and used to create a poultice, which is applied to the affected area.
The plant is also used in bush tucker, with the leaves being eaten raw or used in cooking to add a herb-like flavor to dishes.
Growth conditions of Stackhousia intermedia F.M. Bailey
Light requirements: Stackhousia intermedia plants require bright, indirect light to grow well. They can also tolerate partial shade, but too much shade can make the plants leggy and weak. Therefore, it is best to place them in a location with bright and indirect light.
Temperature requirements: These plants are native to subtropical and warm temperate regions, which means they need warm temperatures to thrive. The ideal temperature range for Stackhousia intermedia plants is between 20 to 25°C during the day, and 15 to 18°C at night. The plants can tolerate some fluctuations in temperature, but they must be protected from extreme cold or heat.
Soil requirements: These plants prefer a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix that consists of a combination of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal for Stackhousia intermedia plants. It is also important to maintain proper soil moisture levels and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Water requirements: Stackhousia intermedia plants require moderate watering, with the soil being kept slightly moist but not wet. The frequency of watering depends on the humidity, temperature, and soil conditions. It is best to water the plants when the top layer of soil is slightly dry.
Fertilizer requirements: These plants do not require frequent fertilization, but feeding them once every two to three months with a balanced liquid fertilizer can promote healthy growth and flowering.
Propagation: Stackhousia intermedia plants can be propagated through seeds and stem cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix in the spring, and stem cuttings should be taken in the late summer or early fall when the plants are actively growing.
Cultivation of Stackhousia intermedia F.M. Bailey
Stackhousia intermedia F.M. Bailey can grow well in sandy or loamy soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH range. The plant prefers a bright location with partial shade, the ideal temperature ranging between 15 and 24°C and a well-drained location.
Watering Needs
The plant needs regular watering, but the soil should not be excessively wet or completely dry. Over- or under-watering can harm the plant, so check the soil's moisture content regularly and adjust watering as needed. During the winter, reduce watering and keep the soil slightly dry.
Fertilization
Feed Stackhousia intermedia F.M. Bailey with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season once every two weeks. Reduce or stop feeding during the winter, when the plant's growth slows down.
Pruning
Prune the plant regularly to improve its shape and encourage more compact growth. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to remove leggy or damaged branches and stem tips. Avoid cutting the plant back too far, allowing at least some foliage to remain on the plant after pruning.
Propagation of Stackhousia intermedia F.M. Bailey
Stackhousia intermedia F.M. Bailey is usually propagated through seeds and cuttings.
Propagation through seeds
The most common method of propagating Stackhousia intermedia F.M. Bailey is through seeds. The seeds are small and require a well-draining soil mix that is kept moist. Sow the seeds thinly on the surface of the soil mix and cover with a thin layer of horticultural sand or vermiculite. Water thoroughly and cover with a clear plastic bag or plastic wrap to retain moisture. The seeds usually germinate within 2 to 6 weeks, although some may take longer.
Propagation through cuttings
Another propagation method for Stackhousia intermedia F.M. Bailey is through cuttings. Softwood cuttings are usually taken in Spring or Summer, when the new growth is still tender. Take cuttings that are about 10 cm long and remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting. Dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone and insert them into a moist vermiculite or perlite mix. Cover with a clear plastic bag or plastic wrap to retain moisture. The cuttings should root in about 4 to 6 weeks. Once the roots have developed, transplant the cuttings into a potting mix and provide them with adequate light and moisture.
Disease and Pest Management for Stackhousia intermedia F.M. Bailey
Stackhousia intermedia F.M. Bailey, also known as bush candles, is a small, evergreen shrub that is native to Australia. This plant is generally easy to grow, and it is not very susceptible to disease or pest problems. However, there are still a few issues that gardeners should be aware of.
Common diseases that might affect Stackhousia intermedia
The most common diseases that might affect Stackhousia intermedia are fungal diseases, including leaf spot and powdery mildew. These diseases usually occur in humid conditions, and they can cause the leaves of the plant to turn yellow or brown, or develop spots or a white powdery coating.
How to manage fungal diseases
To manage fungal diseases, it is important to keep the plant and its surrounding area clean and dry. This includes removing dead plant material from the area around the shrub, avoiding overhead watering, and ensuring good air circulation around the plant. If fungal diseases do develop, fungicides may be used to treat the problem.
Common pests that might affect Stackhousia intermedia
The most common pest that might affect Stackhousia intermedia is the aphid. These small, soft-bodied insects can suck sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to become distorted and discolored. Other pests that may affect the shrub include spider mites and mealybugs.
How to manage common pests
To manage common pests like aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs, a variety of methods may be used. One option is to spray the plant with a strong jet of water, which may dislodge the pests. Alternatively, insecticidal soap or horticultural oils may be used to control the problem. In some cases, beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings may also be released to help control the pest population.
Overall, Stackhousia intermedia is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is not highly susceptible to disease or pest problems. By maintaining good cultural practices and promptly addressing any issues that do arise, gardeners can help ensure the health and vitality of this attractive shrub.
