Contents
Description
Exacum Affine, commonly known as Persian Violet, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the family Gentianaceae. It is native to Madagascar and can grow up to 30 cm in height. The plant has dark green leaves that are ovate and arranged opposite each other. The flowers of Exacum Affine are star-shaped and come in various shades of blue, purple, and white. They bloom in clusters and have a diameter of 3-4 cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Gentianaceae |
| Genus | Exacum |
Appearance
Exacum Affine has dark green ovate leaves that are arranged opposite each other. The flowers of this plant are star-shaped and come in various shades of blue, purple, and white. They bloom in clusters and have a diameter of 3-4 cm. The plant can grow up to 30 cm in height and requires regular pruning to maintain its shape.
Care Guide
Water: Exacum Affine requires regular watering. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid overfertilization as it can lead to salt buildup in the soil.
Soil: Exacum Affine prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 5.5-6.5 is ideal for this plant.
Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight as it can lead to leaf burn.
Hardiness Zones: Exacum Affine is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Exacum Affine is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to powdery mildew and root rot. Proper watering and good air circulation can prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Exacum Affine is native to Madagascar and grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers well-draining soil and bright, indirect sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Exacum Affine?
A: Exacum Affine should be watered regularly. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Exacum Affine?
A: The ideal soil pH for Exacum Affine is 5.5-6.5.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Exacum Affine?
A: Exacum Affine is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, whiteflies, powdery mildew, and root rot.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Exacum Affine?
A: Exacum Affine is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Related Plants
- Exacum Pauciflorum
- Exacum Saccatum
- Exacum Stellatum
References
- “Exacum Affine.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277784.
- “Exacum Affine.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/9278/i-Exacum-affine-i/Details.
- “Exacum Affine.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/exacum-affine-care-1902804.
