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Description
Flemingia Macrophylla, also known as giant flemingia, is a perennial shrub belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and China. The plant grows up to 3 meters tall and has a lifespan of 5-7 years. It has dark green leaves that are oblong or ovate in shape and can grow up to 25 cm in length. The flowers are yellow or orange and bloom in clusters from September to November.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Flemingia |
Appearance
Flemingia Macrophylla is a large shrub with a woody stem and dense foliage. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a leathery texture. They can grow up to 25 cm in length and have an oblong or ovate shape. The flowers are yellow or orange and bloom in clusters from September to November. The plant produces long, slender seed pods that can grow up to 15 cm in length and contain small, black seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Flemingia Macrophylla prefers well-draining soil and requires moderate watering. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, and avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to improve drainage and fertility.Sunlight: Flemingia Macrophylla prefers full sun to partial shade. Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Flemingia Macrophylla is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, or mealybugs. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Flemingia Macrophylla is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and China. It grows in a variety of habitats, including open woodlands, grasslands, and disturbed areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Flemingia Macrophylla a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including coughs, fever, and digestive disorders.
Q: Can Flemingia Macrophylla be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the root system. Use a well-draining potting mix and provide ample sunlight and water.
Q: Does Flemingia Macrophylla attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies and can help support local pollinator populations.
Q: Can Flemingia Macrophylla be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light until the cuttings have rooted.
Related Plants
- Flemingia Congesta
- Flemingia Fruticosa
- Flemingia Lineata
- Flemingia Strobilifera
References
- “Flemingia macrophylla.” Flowers of India. Accessed 10 May 2021. https://www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Giant%20Flemingia.html
- “Flemingia macrophylla.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 10 May 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:505321-1
- “Flemingia macrophylla.” Gardenia. Accessed 10 May 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/flemingia-macrophylla
