Contents
Description
Adenandra Fragrans, also known as the Cape May or Wild May, is a flowering plant that is native to South Africa. It belongs to the Rutaceae family and is a shrub that can grow up to 2.5 meters tall. The plant is known for its fragrant, white flowers that bloom in the late winter and early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Adenandra |
Appearance
The Adenandra Fragrans plant has glossy, dark green leaves that are approximately 1-2 cm long. The leaves are arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem. The plant also produces small, white flowers that are highly fragrant and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The flowers are followed by small, red fruit that are not commonly eaten.
Care Guide
Adenandra Fragrans requires moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
Water
The plant should be watered regularly but not excessively. It prefers well-draining soil, so avoid letting the soil become too waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilizer applications during the fall and winter months.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal. Avoid using heavy, clay soil.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in poor growth and fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones
Adenandra Fragrans is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. It cannot tolerate freezing temperatures and should be grown indoors in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Adenandra Fragrans is relatively pest and disease resistant but can be susceptible to the following:
Scale Insects
These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites
These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Root Rot
Root rot can be caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. To avoid this, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not water the plant excessively.
Habitat
Adenandra Fragrans is native to South Africa and is commonly found in fynbos, a type of shrubland vegetation that is characterized by a high diversity of plant species. It grows in well-draining soil and is adapted to the dry, Mediterranean climate of the region.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Adenandra Fragrans plant?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the soil become too waterlogged.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Adenandra Fragrans?
A: Adenandra Fragrans is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. It cannot tolerate freezing temperatures and should be grown indoors in colder climates.
Q: How tall can Adenandra Fragrans grow?
A: Adenandra Fragrans can grow up to 2.5 meters tall.
Q: What is the best soil mixture for Adenandra Fragrans?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal. Avoid using heavy, clay soil.
Related Plants
- Adenandra Uniflora
- Adenandra Gummifera
- Adenandra Villosa
References
- “Adenandra Fragrans.” PlantZAfrica, National Botanical Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/adenandrafrag.htm.
- “Adenandra Fragrans.” The Spruce, Dotdash, www.thespruce.com/adenandra-fragrans-1902773.
- “Adenandra.” Plantz Africa, National Botanical Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/adenandra.htm.
