| |
|
|
| |
The gypsum is a natural crystalline
colourless to white mineral
consisting of hydrated calcium sulphate, with the chemical formula
of CaSO4 - 2H2O |
|
Gypsum is a common rock that
occurs naturally in sedimentary rocks formed under heat and pressure
from sediments in ocean salt water or by evaporation. It is the most
common natural sulphate mineral and
forms beds and lenses interstratified with
limestone, shale, and
clay. Gypsum also occurs in
volcanic fumarolic deposits and as an accessory mineral in metalliferous
veins; the mineral often appears as outward-curving flowers which have
the shape of a petal. The rock is softer than
limestone.
It is a dry natural fertilizer
or amendment that supplies two important
micronutrients:
calcium and sulphur, it is used to
ameliorate soils with a high exchangeable
sodium fraction.
Also used in potting-mix for
ornamental plants that
need substrates rich in
calcium.
Gypseous =
Of, relating to, or containing gypsum
Gypsiferous =
Containing gypsum
The
particular plants adapted to live in
such a gypsiferous habitat are
called Gypsophiles
or Gypsophilous plant.
A number of
cactus and
succulents are
gypsophiles and need some gypsum grit/sand in the
potting mix. |