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Description
Abutilon Pictum Thompsonii, also known as Red Vein Chinese Lantern, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Malvaceae family. This plant is native to Brazil and is a popular choice among gardeners worldwide due to its striking appearance and ease of care. Abutilon Pictum Thompsonii can grow up to 3 meters tall and can spread up to 2 meters wide. The plant produces attractive bell-shaped flowers that come in shades of orange, yellow, and red. The leaves of this plant are green with red veins, which give it a unique appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Abutilon |
Appearance
The Abutilon Pictum Thompsonii plant has a rounded and bushy appearance, with branches growing outwards from the center. The leaves are heart-shaped and measure around 5-10cm in length. The leaves are green with prominent red veins that make them stand out. The flowers grow on long stems and are bell-shaped, measuring around 3-4cm in diameter. The flowers come in shades of orange, yellow, and red and have a delicate appearance.
Care Guide
Abutilon Pictum Thompsonii is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
- Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is kept moderately moist. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Use a potting mix that contains peat moss or vermiculite.
- Sunlight: Abutilon Pictum Thompsonii prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Keep your plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Abutilon Pictum Thompsonii is generally a disease-resistant plant. However, it may be susceptible to pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. To prevent pest infestations, regularly inspect your plant for signs of pests and treat them promptly. Diseases such as root rot and powdery mildew may occur if the plant is overwatered or kept in a location with poor air circulation.
Habitat
Abutilon Pictum Thompsonii is native to Brazil and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. This plant prefers warm, humid environments and is well-suited to growing in containers indoors or outdoors. It is a popular choice for landscaping and can be grown as a shrub or small tree.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize my Abutilon Pictum Thompsonii plant?
A: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Abutilon Pictum Thompsonii be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors in a bright location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Q: How often should I water my Abutilon Pictum Thompsonii plant?
A: Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: Is Abutilon Pictum Thompsonii a disease-resistant plant?
A: Yes, this plant is generally disease-resistant, but may be susceptible to root rot and powdery mildew if overwatered.
Related Plants
- Abutilon Megapotamicum
- Abutilon Indicum
- Abutilon Hybridum
- Abutilon Kentish Belle
References
- Gardening Know How. Abutilon Pictum Thompsonii Care: Tips For Growing Red Vein Chinese Lanterns. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/abutilon/red-vein-chinese-lanterns.htm
- Royal Horticultural Society. Abutilon Pictum Thompsonii. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16671/Abutilon-pictum-Thompsonii/Details
- BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. How to grow Abutilon pictum. https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-abutilon-pictum/
