Eleutherospermum

Description

Eleutherospermum is a genus of flowering plants in the family Araceae. It is native to tropical regions of Asia and Australia. The genus comprises only one species, Eleutherospermum amplum. It is also known as ‘elephant’s ear vine’ or ‘elephant ear plant’. The plant is a climbing vine that can grow up to 10 meters long. The leaves are large, heart-shaped, and glossy. The flowers are small and inconspicuous.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Monocotyledonae
Order	Alismatales
Family	Araceae
Genus	Eleutherospermum

Appearance

Eleutherospermum has large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 30 cm in length and 25 cm in width. The leaves are glossy and dark green in color. The stem of the plant is woody and can grow up to 10 meters long. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are greenish-yellow in color.

Care Guide

Water

Eleutherospermum prefers moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought. Water the plant regularly, but make sure the soil is not waterlogged.

Fertilization

Fertilize Eleutherospermum once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Soil

Eleutherospermum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.

Sunlight

Eleutherospermum prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate some shade.

Hardiness Zones

Eleutherospermum can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 10 to 12.

Common Pests & Diseases

Eleutherospermum is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. It can also be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet.

Habitat

Eleutherospermum is native to tropical regions of Asia and Australia. It can be found growing in rainforests, along rivers, and on rocky slopes.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Eleutherospermum toxic to pets?

A: Yes, Eleutherospermum is toxic to pets. Keep the plant out of reach of cats and dogs.

Q: Can Eleutherospermum be grown indoors?

A: Yes, Eleutherospermum can be grown indoors in a bright, humid location.

Q: How often should I water Eleutherospermum?

A: Water Eleutherospermum when the top inch of soil is dry.

Q: Can I propagate Eleutherospermum from cuttings?

A: Yes, Eleutherospermum can be propagated from stem cuttings.

Related Plants

• Philodendron
• Monstera
• Syngonium
• Pothos

References

• Flowers of India. (n.d.). Eleutherospermum amplum. Retrieved from https://www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Elephant’s%20Ear%20Vine.html
• University of Florida IFAS Extension. (n.d.). Eleutherospermum amplum. Retrieved from http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp108
• Wikipedia. (n.d.). Eleutherospermum. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eleutherospermum