Contents
Description
Funastrum Crispum, also known as crisp leaf twinevine, is a deciduous vine native to the Southern United States, Mexico, and Central America. It belongs to the Apocynaceae family and is characterized by its twining stem and small, white flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Funastrum |
| Species | Crispum |
Appearance
Funastrum Crispum has a twining stem that can reach up to 10 feet in height. Its leaves are oblong, up to 4 inches long, and have a distinct crisp texture. The leaves are arranged oppositely along the stem and have a glossy, dark green color. The flowers are small, white, and star-shaped, with a pleasant fragrance. The fruit is a thin, elongated pod that can grow up to 8 inches long and contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Funastrum Crispum is a low-maintenance plant and is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
Water: Water your plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can cause the leaves to wilt.
Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Soil: Funastrum Crispum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal.
Sunlight: Funastrum Crispum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce flowering.
Hardiness Zones: Funastrum Crispum is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Funastrum Crispum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling on the leaves. Use a neem oil spray to control infestations.
Mildew: Powdery mildew can appear on the leaves in humid conditions. Use a fungicide to control the spread of the disease.
Habitat
Funastrum Crispum is native to the Southern United States, Mexico, and Central America. It grows in a variety of habitats, including open woods, fields, and roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Funastrum Crispum a fast-growing plant?
A: Yes, Funastrum Crispum is a fast-growing plant and can grow up to 10 feet in height in a single growing season.
Q: Can Funastrum Crispum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Funastrum Crispum can be grown in containers, but it will require support to climb.
Q: Does Funastrum Crispum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Funastrum Crispum is attractive to bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should Funastrum Crispum be pruned?
A: Funastrum Crispum does not require regular pruning, but you can prune it to control its size or shape.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Funastrum Crispum:
- Funastrum Clausum
- Funastrum Hirtellum
- Funastrum Monophyllum
References
- “Funastrum Crispum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278459.
- “Funastrum Crispum.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/database/index.php?title=Funastrum_crispum.
