Status:
valid
Authors:
M.Balkwill
Source:
ksufab
Year:
1999
Citation Micro:
S. African J. Bot.65: 352 (1999)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000362863
Common Names
- Lessertia Contracta
- Contracted Lessertia
- Contracted Lespedeza
Description
Lessertia contracta (also called Contracted Lessertia, among many other common names) is a perennial herb native to South Africa. It grows in grassy areas, open woodlands, and disturbed areas. It has trifoliate leaves and yellow flowers.
Uses & Benefits
Lessertia contracta is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and is also used for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The Lessertia contracta flower is a white, star-shaped flower with five petals and a central pistil. The seed is a small, black, oval-shaped seed. The seedlings are small, oval-shaped leaves with a white hue.
Cultivation and Propagation
Lessertia contracta is a deciduous shrub that can be propagated by seed or cuttings. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It can be grown in containers or in the ground. Water regularly and fertilize monthly during the growing season.
Where to Find Lessertia contracta
Lessertia contracta is native to South Africa and can be found in dry, sunny areas such as grasslands and savannas.
Lessertia contracta FAQ
What is the scientific name of Lessertia contracta?
Lessertia contracta
What is the common name of Lessertia contracta?
Contracted Lessertia
What is the growth habit of Lessertia contracta?
It is a deciduous shrub with an upright growth habit.
Species in the Lessertia genus
Lessertia acanthorhachis,
Lessertia affinis,
Lessertia annularis,
Lessertia benguellensis,
Lessertia brachypus,
Lessertia brachystachya,
Lessertia candida,
Lessertia capensis,
Lessertia capitata,
Lessertia carnosa,
Lessertia cryptantha,
Lessertia depressa,
Lessertia diffusa,
Lessertia distans,
Lessertia dykei,
Lessertia emarginata,
Lessertia eremicola,
Lessertia falciformis,
Lessertia flanaganii,
Lessertia flexuosa,
Lessertia fruticosa,
Lessertia glabricaulis,
Lessertia globosa,
Lessertia harveyana,
Lessertia herbacea,
Lessertia incana,
Lessertia inflata,
Lessertia kensitii,
Lessertia macrostachya,
Lessertia margaritacea,
Lessertia microcarpa,
Lessertia mossii,
Lessertia parviflora,
Lessertia pappeana,
Lessertia pauciflora,
Lessertia perennans,
Lessertia phillipsiana,
Lessertia physodes,
Lessertia prostrata,
Lessertia rigida,
Lessertia spinescens,
Lessertia stricta,
Lessertia subumbellata,
Lessertia tenuifolia,
Lessertia thodei,
Lessertia tomentosa,
Lessertia contracta,
Lessertia villosa,
Lessertia macroflora,
Lessertia obtusata,
Species in the Fabaceae family