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Description
Brunsvigia Litoralis, also known as the candelabra flower, is a bulbous perennial plant that belongs to the family Amaryllidaceae. It is native to South Africa and has a blooming period from late summer to early autumn. The plant produces a massive, spherical inflorescence that can be up to 60 cm in diameter and is composed of many small, bright red flowers. The leaves are strap-shaped and can reach a length of up to 2 meters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Brunsvigia |
Appearance
The Brunsvigia Litoralis bulb can grow up to 20 cm in diameter and is covered in a brown fibrous tunica. The plant produces a massive, spherical inflorescence composed of many small, bright red flowers. The inflorescence can grow up to 60 cm in diameter and is composed of up to 300 flowers. The leaves are strap-shaped and can reach a length of up to 2 meters. The plant can grow up to 60 cm in height.
Care Guide
- Water: The plant requires moderate watering during its growing season, which is from spring to autumn. During the dormant season, which is in winter, the plant should be kept dry.
- Fertilization: The plant needs regular fertilization during its growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks.
- Soil: The Brunsvigia Litoralis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A sandy loam soil is ideal.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It should be planted in a location with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Brunsvigia Litoralis is susceptible to mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. It is also prone to rotting if overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil. Powdery mildew can also be a problem in humid conditions.
Habitat
The Brunsvigia Litoralis is native to South Africa and is found in the provinces of Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga. The plant grows in rocky areas and grasslands and prefers well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Brunsvigia Litoralis?
A: The plant requires moderate watering during its growing season, which is from spring to autumn. During the dormant season, which is in winter, the plant should be kept dry.
Q: What is the ideal soil type for the Brunsvigia Litoralis?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A sandy loam soil is ideal.
Q: Is the Brunsvigia Litoralis hardy?
A: Yes, the plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Q: What pests and diseases should I watch out for?
A: The plant is susceptible to mealybugs, aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew.
Related Plants
- Brunsvigia Bosmaniae
- Brunsvigia Grandiflora
- Brunsvigia Josephinae
- Brunsvigia Orientalis
References
- “Brunsvigia Litoralis.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/brunsviglitor.htm.
- “Brunsvigia Litoralis.” Pacific Bulb Society, www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/BrunsvigiaLitoralis.
- “Brunsvigia Litoralis (Candelabra Flower).” World of Flowering Plants, worldoffloweringplants.com/brunsvigia-litoralis-candelabra-flower/.
