Status:
valid
Authors:
Obbard & S.A.Harris
Source:
wcs
Year:
2006
Citation Micro:
Kew Bull. 61: 103 (2006)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000806144
Common Names
- Mercurialis canariensis
- Canary Mercurialis
- Canary Dog's Mercury
Description
Mercurialis canariensis (also called Mercurialis, among many other common names) is a small, evergreen shrub native to the Canary Islands. It has a dense, rounded crown and glossy, dark green leaves. Its small, white flowers are fragrant and have a yellow center.
Uses & Benefits
Mercurialis canariensis is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a houseplant.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Mercurialis canariensis is a small, white, star-shaped bloom with a yellow throat. The seed is a small, dark brown, ovoid-shaped seed. The seedlings are small, green, and have a few small leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Mercurialis canariensis is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 3m in height. It is best grown in full sun or partial shade in moist, well-drained soil. Propagation is usually done by seed, which should be sown in spring in a cold frame. The seedlings should be potted up into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and should be planted out in their permanent positions in late spring or early summer.
Where to Find Mercurialis canariensis
Mercurialis canariensis can be found in tropical regions of Central and South America, including Brazil, Colombia, and Peru.
Mercurialis canariensis FAQ
What is the scientific name of Mercurialis canariensis?
Mercurialis canariensis
What is the natural habitat of Mercurialis canariensis?
Canary Islands
What are the care requirements for Mercurialis canariensis?
Mercurialis canariensis prefers bright, indirect light and regular watering.
Species in the Mercurialis genus
Mercurialis annua,
Mercurialis corsica,
Mercurialis elliptica,
Mercurialis huetii,
Mercurialis leiocarpa,
Mercurialis longifolia,
Mercurialis ovata,
Mercurialis paxii,
Mercurialis perennis,
Mercurialis reverchonii,
Mercurialis tomentosa,
Mercurialis canariensis,
Mercurialis longistipes,
Species in the Euphorbiaceae family
Acalypha peckoltii,
Acalypha peduncularis,
Acalypha pendula,
Acalypha perrieri,
Acalypha persimilis,
Acalypha peruviana,
Acalypha pervilleana,
Acalypha phleoides,
Acalypha phyllonomifolia,
Acalypha pilosa,
Acalypha pippenii,
Acalypha pittieri,
Acalypha platyphylla,
Acalypha pleiogyne,
Acalypha plicata,
Acalypha pohliana,
Acalypha poiretii,
Acalypha polymorpha,
Acalypha polystachya,
Acalypha portoricensis,
Acalypha pruinosa,
Acalypha pruriens,
Acalypha pseudalopecuroides,
Acalypha pseudovagans,
Acalypha psilostachya,
Acalypha pubiflora,
Acalypha pulchrespicata,
Acalypha punctata,
Acalypha purpurascens,
Acalypha purpusii,
Acalypha pycnantha,
Acalypha pygmaea,
Acalypha radians,
Acalypha radicans,
Acalypha radinostachya,
Acalypha radula,
Acalypha radula,
Acalypha rafaelensis,
Acalypha raivavensis,
Acalypha rapensis,
Acalypha reflexa,
Acalypha repanda,
Acalypha retifera,
Acalypha rhombifolia,
Acalypha rhomboidea,
Acalypha richardiana,
Acalypha riedeliana,
Acalypha rivularis,
Acalypha rottleroides,
Acalypha rubrinervis,
References
Stephen A. Harris: Based on occurrence of standard abbreviation 'S.A.Harris' in the authors string.