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Description
Eriosema is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family, Fabaceae. This genus comprises approximately 200 species that are native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Some species of Eriosema are grown as ornamental plants for their attractive flowers and foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Eriosema |
Appearance
Eriosema plants can vary in size from small shrubs to large trees. They have compound leaves that are usually made up of three leaflets, but some species have more. The leaflets can be smooth or hairy, and they may have a range of shapes, from oval to lance-shaped. Eriosema plants produce flowers that are typically red, pink, yellow, or purple, and they may be solitary or in clusters. The flowers have a distinctive shape, with a long, narrow tube leading to a flared, five-petaled corolla.
Care Guide
Eriosema plants require well-draining soil and should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. They prefer full sun to partial shade and can be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Eriosema plants are typically hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eriosema plants can be susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plants well-watered and fertilized and to remove any diseased or damaged foliage promptly. Pesticides and fungicides can also be used as needed.
Habitat
Eriosema plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including Africa, Asia, Australia, and South America. They are typically found in open, sunny locations, such as meadows, savannas, and woodland edges.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Eriosema plants be grown indoors?
A: Eriosema plants are typically too large to be grown indoors, but some smaller species may be suitable for growing in containers.
Q: How often should Eriosema plants be fertilized?
A: Eriosema plants can be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Are Eriosema plants drought-tolerant?
A: Eriosema plants prefer moist soil and are not particularly drought-tolerant.
Q: How can I propagate Eriosema plants?
A: Eriosema plants can be propagated from seed or by taking stem cuttings.
Related Plants
– Dalbergia- Crotalaria- Indigofera- Lupinus- Mimosa
References
– “Eriosema.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 22 Mar. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eriosema.- “Eriosema.” The Plant List, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden, www.theplantlist.org/browse/A/Leguminosae/Eriosema/.
