Drooping velvet bush facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Drooping velvet bush |
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|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Lasiopetalum
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| Species: |
schulzenii
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The Lasiopetalum schulzenii, often called the drooping velvet bush, is a common shrub. It belongs to the mallow plant family. This plant was first described by a botanist named Ferdinand von Mueller. Later, another botanist, George Bentham, gave it its current scientific name. The plant was named after a 19th-century botanist, Ludwig F. Schulzen.
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Drooping Velvet Bush: What It Looks Like
The drooping velvet bush is a spreading shrub. It can grow up to 2 m (6.6 ft) tall. It can also spread out to 2.5 m (8.2 ft) wide. This plant has many stems and lots of leaves.
Its leaves are grey-green and covered in fine hairs. These hairs are especially noticeable on new growth. The leaves are shaped like a heart. They are usually 2–7 cm (1–3 in) long. They are also 1.5–5 cm (0.59–1.97 in) wide. The edges of the leaves curl backwards.
Flowers and Fruit
This bush flowers from September to February. Its flowers grow in small clusters. Each cluster has five to twelve flowers. The flowers are shaped like five-pointed stars. They are about 1.5 cm (0.59 in) across.
The outer parts of the flower, called calyces, are whitish. They are covered with fine hairs on the outside. The five tiny petals inside are a dark red-brown color. After the flowers, the plant grows round, hairy fruits. These fruits are about 0.4 cm (0.16 in) in diameter.
Where the Drooping Velvet Bush Grows
You can find the drooping velvet bush in South Australia. It also grows in coastal areas of south-western Victoria. In Victoria, it is quite rare.
This plant likes to grow in sandy soils that are alkaline. Alkaline means the soil is not acidic. It often grows near a type of tree called Eucalyptus diversifolia subsp. megacarpa.
Why This Plant Is Special
The drooping velvet bush could be a great plant for gardens. Its compact leaves and pretty flowers make it attractive. It grows well in soils that drain water easily. It can grow in sunny spots or places with some shade.
This bush can handle cold weather and frost. It can also survive long dry periods without much water. You can grow new plants from seeds or by taking cuttings. Cuttings are small pieces of the plant that can grow roots. This plant is also known to be somewhat fire retardant. This means it doesn't catch fire easily.
