Status:
valid
Authors:
R.Br.
Source:
cmp
Year:
1810
Citation Micro:
Prodr. Fl. Nov. Holland. : 554 (1810)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000533927
Common Names
- Andersonia caerulea
- Caerulea Andersonia
- Caerulea Andersonia Plant
Synonyms
- Melichrus squarrosus Sond. [valid]
- Sprengelia coerulea F.Muell. [valid]
- Sprengelia depressa F.Muell. [valid]
- Andersonia concinna N.E.Br. [valid]
- Andersonia depressa R.Br. [valid]
- Andersonia depressa ciliata Benth. [valid]
- Andersonia lanuginosa A.Cunn. ex DC. [valid]
- Andersonia prostrata Sond. [valid]
- Andersonia squarrosa R.Br. [valid]
- Andersonia subulata Benth. [valid]
- Andersonia variegata Sond. [valid]
Description
Andersonia caerulea (also called Blue Andersonia, among many other common names) is an annual herb native to South America. It has ovate to lanceolate leaves and small, white flowers. It grows in moist, sunny habitats, such as riverbanks, roadsides and disturbed areas.
Uses & Benefits
Andersonia caerulea is an ornamental plant used in gardens and flower beds. It is also used as a medicinal plant, as it has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antispasmodic properties.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Andersonia caerulea is a small, white, star-shaped flower with yellow anthers. The seed is a small, black, oval-shaped seed. The seedlings are small and have a single, slender stem with a few leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Andersonia caerulea is a perennial herb with a woody base. It can be propagated by seed or by division. Seeds should be sown in a well-drained, sunny location in the spring. Division should be done in the spring or fall. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Where to Find Andersonia caerulea
Andersonia caerulea can be found in the Mediterranean region, in dry and rocky habitats.
Andersonia caerulea FAQ
What are the common uses of Andersonia caerulea?
Andersonia caerulea is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and for landscaping.
What is the growth rate of Andersonia caerulea?
Andersonia caerulea has a slow to moderate growth rate.
What is the soil type suitable for Andersonia caerulea?
Andersonia caerulea prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soils.
Species in the Andersonia genus
Andersonia annelsii,
Andersonia aristata,
Andersonia auriculata,
Andersonia axilliflora,
Andersonia barbata,
Andersonia bifida,
Andersonia brachyanthera,
Andersonia brevifolia,
Andersonia caerulea,
Andersonia carinata,
Andersonia echinocephala,
Andersonia ferricola,
Andersonia geniculata,
Andersonia gracilis,
Andersonia grandiflora,
Andersonia hammersleyana,
Andersonia heterophylla,
Andersonia involucrata,
Andersonia latiflora,
Andersonia lehmanniana,
Andersonia longifolia,
Andersonia macranthera,
Andersonia micrantha,
Andersonia parvifolia,
Andersonia pauciflora,
Andersonia pinaster,
Andersonia redolens,
Andersonia setifolia,
Andersonia simplex,
Andersonia sprengelioides,
Species in the Ericaceae family