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Description
Biophytum is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the Oxalidaceae family. This unique plant is native to tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Biophytum is commonly known as the rainforest plant or the little tree plant. It is a small herbaceous plant that grows up to 30 cm in height. The plant has a woody stem with multiple branches. The leaves are trifoliate and resemble a miniature umbrella. Biophytum produces small pink flowers that bloom in clusters. The plant also produces small capsules containing seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Oxalidaceae |
| Genus | Biophytum |
Appearance
Biophytum has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other plants. The plant has a woody stem with multiple branches that grow up to 30 cm in height. The leaves are trifoliate and resemble a miniature umbrella. The leaves are green in color and have a glossy texture. The plant produces small pink flowers that bloom in clusters. The flowers have five petals and are about 1 cm in diameter. Biophytum also produces small capsules containing seeds.
Care Guide
Biophytum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you care for your Biophytum plant:- Water: Biophytum needs to be watered regularly. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Biophytum needs to be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer.- Soil: Biophytum prefers well-draining soil. Use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand.- Sunlight: Biophytum prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Biophytum is not frost-tolerant and prefers temperatures above 60°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Biophytum is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect Biophytum:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause damage to the leaves of Biophytum. Regularly check the plant for spider mites and treat with an insecticide if necessary.- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that can infest Biophytum. Use an insecticide to treat the plant if you notice mealybugs.- Pythium root rot: This fungal disease can cause the roots of Biophytum to rot. Avoid overwatering the plant to prevent this disease.
Habitat
Biophytum is native to tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Oceania. The plant grows in rainforests and other tropical habitats. Biophytum prefers moist soil and bright, indirect sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the scientific name of Biophytum?
A: The scientific name of Biophytum is Biophytum sensitivum.
Q: How often should I water my Biophytum plant?
A: Biophytum needs to be watered regularly. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: Can I grow Biophytum indoors?
A: Yes, Biophytum can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How tall does Biophytum grow?
A: Biophytum can grow up to 30 cm in height.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Biophytum:- Oxalis- Averrhoa- Hibiscus- Impatiens
References
– “Biophytum.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 18 Feb. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biophytum.- “Biophytum Sensitivum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c450.
