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Description
Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata, commonly known as the hairy-leaved Bonnaya, is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the family Melastomataceae. It is native to South America, particularly Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It is a popular ornamental plant grown for its attractive foliage and beautiful flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Melastomataceae |
| Genus | Bonnaya |
Appearance
Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata has hairy, ovate leaves that are dark green on the upper surface and paler underneath. The leaves are typically 5-10 cm long and 3-6 cm wide. The plant produces attractive, bright pink to purple flowers that are around 2 cm in diameter. The flowers are clustered in terminal panicles that can be up to 30 cm long. Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata can grow up to 1.5-2 meters tall and 1.5 meters wide.
Care Guide
Water
Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. However, it is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.
Soil
Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata prefers well-drained, fertile soil. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it is important to avoid soils that are too heavy or waterlogged.
Sunlight
Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade, but this may result in reduced flowering.
Hardiness Zones
Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata is generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, or leaf spot. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or fungicide, as appropriate.
Habitat
Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata is native to South America, particularly Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It grows in a variety of habitats, including moist forests, savannas, and disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata a good plant for beginners?
A: Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata can be a good plant for beginners, as it is relatively easy to care for and is not susceptible to many pests or diseases.
Q: Can Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata be grown indoors?
A: Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata can be grown indoors, but it may not flower as well as it would outdoors. It requires bright, indirect light and moist soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata?
A: Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How tall does Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata grow?
A: Bonnaya Ciliata Subsp. Ciliata can grow up to 1.5-2 meters tall and 1.5 meters wide.
Related Plants
- Bonnaya Edulis
- Bonnaya Grandiflora
- Bonnaya Hirsuta
- Bonnaya Scabiosifolia
References
- “Bonnaya ciliata subsp. ciliata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281876.
- “Bonnaya ciliata subsp. ciliata.” PlantFiles. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/186561/.
- “Bonnaya ciliata subsp. ciliata.” Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed August 10, 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:77146816-1.
