Dicliptera Chinensis
Contents
Description
Dicliptera Chinensis, also known as Chinese Foldwing, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Acanthaceae family. It is native to China but can also be found in other Asian countries such as Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. The plant can grow up to 50cm in height and has an upright habit. Its leaves are ovate to lanceolate and can be up to 6cm long. The flowers are small and tubular in shape, with a bright purple color and white markings on the lower lip. The plant blooms from summer to fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Dicliptera |
Appearance
Dicliptera Chinensis has a distinct appearance that makes it stand out in any garden. The plant has an upright habit and can grow up to 50cm in height. Its leaves are ovate to lanceolate, and they can be up to 6cm long. The leaves are a deep green color and have a slightly rough texture. The flowers are small and tubular, with a bright purple color and white markings on the lower lip. The plant blooms from summer to fall, and the flowers are a popular attraction for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Dicliptera Chinensis is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it still requires proper care to thrive. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Dicliptera Chinensis is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dicliptera Chinensis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. Make sure to water the plant only when the topsoil is dry.
- Aphids: Aphids can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites can also damage the plant by sucking the sap. Use a miticide to control spider mites.
Habitat
Dicliptera Chinensis is native to China but can also be found in other Asian countries such as Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. It can be found in gardens, parks, and other cultivated areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dicliptera Chinensis a shade or sun plant?
A: Dicliptera Chinensis prefers partial shade to full sun.
Q: How often should I water Dicliptera Chinensis?
A: Water the plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Dicliptera Chinensis?
A: Dicliptera Chinensis is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Q: How tall can Dicliptera Chinensis grow?
A: Dicliptera Chinensis can grow up to 50cm in height.
Related Plants
- Dicliptera bupleuroides
- Dicliptera chinensis
- Dicliptera ciliata
- Dicliptera suberecta
- Dicliptera pilosiuscula
References
- “Dicliptera Chinensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b818. Accessed 10 Aug. 2021.
- “Dicliptera Chinensis.” Plant Delights Nursery, 2021, www.plantdelights.com/products/dicliptera-chinensis. Accessed 10 Aug. 2021.
- “Dicliptera Chinensis.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, www.kew.org/wcsp/home/checklist. Accessed 10 Aug. 2021.
