Contents
Description
Dolichandra is a genus of flowering plants that belong to the Bignoniaceae family. It is native to the tropical regions of America, especially in Brazil. The genus was first described in 1843 by the German botanist, Carl Friedrich Philipp von Martius. It has since become a popular ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus | Dolichandra |
Appearance
Dolichandra plants are shrubs or small trees that can grow up to 6 meters tall. They have a woody stem and branches that are covered with a grayish-brown bark. The leaves are simple, opposite, and ovate or lanceolate in shape. They can grow up to 30 cm long and are dark green in color.The flowers of the Dolichandra plant are trumpet-shaped and have five petals. They can be yellow, orange, or red in color and can grow up to 10 cm long. They bloom in the spring and summer months.
Care Guide
Dolichandra plants require moderate care to thrive. Here are some tips on how to take care of your Dolichandra plant:- Water: Dolichandra plants prefer well-drained soil that is evenly moist. Water the plant once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring to fall) to encourage growth and blooming.- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Dolichandra plants prefer full sun to partial shade. Place the plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Dolichandra plants are hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dolichandra plants are susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:- Mealybugs: These insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them.- Scale insects: These insects look like small bumps on the stems and leaves of the plant. They can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can cause the roots to rot. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained and that the plant is not sitting in standing water.
Habitat
Dolichandra plants are native to the tropical regions of America, especially in Brazil. They can grow in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and wetlands.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Dolichandra plant?
A: Water your Dolichandra plant once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: What is the best fertilizer to use for Dolichandra plants?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring to fall) to encourage growth and blooming.
Q: What are the common pests of Dolichandra plants?
A: The common pests of Dolichandra plants are mealybugs and scale insects.
Q: Where are Dolichandra plants native to?
A: Dolichandra plants are native to the tropical regions of America, especially in Brazil.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to the Dolichandra:- Campsis- Catalpa- Jacaranda- Tecoma
References
– “Dolichandra.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed 30 Aug. 2021.- “Dolichandra.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 30 Aug. 2021.- “Dolichandra.” The Plant List. Accessed 30 Aug. 2021.
