Special Web Offer - Get 50% OFF!
Grab Your Deal Now
PlantSnap
Plant Care
Sixteen-nerve styphelia
(Styphelia exarrhena)
Also Known As
Sixteen-nerve styphelia, Australian styphelia, Heath myrtle
About This Plant
Styphelia exarrhena is a species of plant in the family Ericaceae, native to Australia. It is a small, evergreen shrub with needle-like leaves and small, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in winter and spring. The plant can grow up to 1 meter tall and has a spread of up to 1.5 meters.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
Height: 3-4 feet (90-120 cm), Spread: 4-5 feet (120-150 cm)
Light Requirements
Styphelia exarrhena prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not bloom as well.
Humidity Needs
Styphelia exarrhena prefers moderate to high humidity levels. It can benefit from occasional misting during dry periods.
Fertilizing Schedule
Fertilize the plant with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in spring and summer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the plant.
Pruning Guidelines
Prune the plant lightly after flowering to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Common Pests and Diseases
Styphelia exarrhena is generally pest and disease-resistant, but can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Indoor Size Range
Not suitable for indoor growing.
Watering Schedule
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in winter.
Temperature Range
The plant prefers cool to moderate temperatures, between 50-70°F (10-21°C). It can tolerate some frost but should be protected from extreme cold.
Growing Season
Styphelia exarrhena typically blooms in winter and spring, and grows actively during the spring and summer months.
Growing Difficulty Level
Styphelia exarrhena is moderately difficult to grow, as it requires specific growing conditions and can be sensitive to overwatering and over-fertilizing.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Styphelia exarrhena is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Did You Know?
The prickly heath gets its name from the small, sharp spines that grow along the stems and leaves of the plant. These spines help protect the plant from browsing animals in its native habitat.
