Contents
Description
Duroia is a genus of tropical plants that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is a shrub or small tree that grows up to 6 meters tall. The plant is native to the Amazon rainforest and is known for its beautiful flowers and unique fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Duroia |
Appearance
The leaves of the Duroia plant are simple, alternate, and elliptic in shape. They are glossy, dark green, and have a leathery texture. The flowers are white or cream-colored and have a tubular shape with five petals. The fruit of the Duroia plant is a unique, woody capsule that splits open when ripe to reveal two seeds attached to a central axis.
Care Guide
Water the Duroia plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Place the plant in a location that receives partial shade or filtered sunlight. The Duroia plant grows best in hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Duroia plant is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to root rot and leaf spot diseases. Avoid overwatering the plant and remove any infected leaves to prevent the spread of disease.
Habitat
The Duroia plant is native to the Amazon rainforest and can be found growing in the understory of the forest. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Duroia plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Duroia plant can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a location that receives filtered sunlight and is kept in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Duroia plant?
A: Fertilize the Duroia plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Duroia plant?
A: The Duroia plant grows best in hardiness zones 10-12.
Q: How often should I water my Duroia plant?
A: Water the Duroia plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Related Plants
- Coffea
- Cinchona
- Ilex
- Psychotria
References
- “Duroia.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Rubiaceae/Duroia/.
- “Duroia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c441.
- “Duroia.” Plants of the World Online, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:320839-2.
