Virgin's mantle (Fagonia cretica)

Virgin's mantle

With five-petaled light purple to violet flowers, virgin's mantle (Fagonia cretica) is a welcome sight in its desert environment. Its nickname derives from a legend stating the plant was used to adorn the biblical Virgin Mary. Historically, virgin's mantle has been used to dye wool green.

Scientific classification

Species

Virgin's mantle (Fagonia cretica)

Creosote bush and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Mid spring

Harvest Time

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Distribution of Virgin's mantle

Distribution Map

Virgin's mantle is native to the Mediterranean region and can primarily be found sprawling across the arid and semi-arid areas of the eastern Mediterranean Basin and parts of North Africa. It has adapted to a variety of Mediterranean climates and has a presence in the subregions known for their hot, dry summers and cooler, wet winters.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Deserts, Dry washes, Ditches, Rocky outcrops

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Virgin's mantle

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from arid regions, virgin's mantle thrives with minimal moisture and significant drought tolerance. Watering should occur every 2-3 weeks to mimic its natural habitat. Grown outdoors, it flourishes in well-draining soil that prevents root water accumulation.

Fertilize: Virgin's mantle' thrives with a balanced, high-nitrogen fertilizer, applied bi-monthly during growth. Over-fertilization can damage 'virgin's mantle.' Adjust application in cooler months, using diluted methods for optimal soil integration, enhancing vitality, stress resistance, and floral display.

Pruning: Virgin's mantle is a resilient shrub ideal for arid climates, characterized by small, needle-like leaves. Prune in early spring to remove dead or damaged branches, ensuring light, regular trimming for shape. This enhances air circulation, flowering, and contributes to the overall vigor of virgin's mantle.

Propagation: Virgin's mantle, a small shrub valued for its medicinal benefits and pink flowers, thrives in well-drained soil and full sunlight. Propagation via cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems is recommended, with rooting hormone enhancing success. Use a sand and peat mix for optimal growth until transplanting.

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Distribution of Virgin's mantle

Care Guide for Virgin's mantle

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