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Description
Acanthopsis is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Acanthaceae. This genus comprises about 20 species of shrubs and small trees that are native to southern Africa. The plants are known for their showy, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in various shades of pink, red, and purple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Acanthopsis |
Appearance
Acanthopsis plants are evergreen shrubs or small trees that can grow up to 3 meters tall. The leaves are simple, opposite, and ovate in shape, with a glossy green surface and slightly serrated edges. The flowers are borne in terminal panicles and are trumpet-shaped, with five petals fused into a tube. They come in various shades of pink, red, and purple, and are often marked with darker spots or stripes. The fruit is a capsule containing numerous small seeds.
Care Guide
Acanthopsis plants require moderately moist soil, and should be watered regularly but not excessively. They prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. These plants prefer full sun to partial shade, and are hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acanthopsis plants are relatively disease-resistant, but they may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. They may also be vulnerable to spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Acanthopsis plants are native to southern Africa, where they grow in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, grasslands, and forests. They prefer well-draining soil and are often found growing on hillsides or in rocky areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Acanthopsis plants tolerate drought?
A: While Acanthopsis plants prefer moist soil, they can tolerate moderate drought once established.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Acanthopsis plant?
A: Acanthopsis plants should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Acanthopsis plants be grown indoors?
A: Acanthopsis plants can be grown indoors in bright, indirect light, but they may not bloom as well as they would outdoors.
Q: How do I propagate Acanthopsis plants?
A: Acanthopsis plants can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or summer. The cuttings should be placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until they root.
Related Plants
- Acanthus mollis
- Barleria lupulina
- Justicia brandegeana
- Ruellia brittoniana
References
- “Acanthopsis.” The Plant List. Version 1.1. Published on the Internet; http://www.theplantlist.org/ (accessed August 28th, 2021).
- “Acanthopsis.” International Plant Names Index. Published on the Internet; https://www.ipni.org/ (accessed August 28th, 2021).
- Roberts, M. “Acanthopsis.” In: The New Plantsman. Vol. 23, Part 3. 2014.
