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Description
Gamblea is a genus of flowering plants in the family Malvaceae, native to South America. It is a small genus that includes only two known species: Gamblea lutea and Gamblea macrophylla. Gamblea lutea is a shrub that can grow up to 3 meters tall, while Gamblea macrophylla is a small tree that can grow up to 10 meters tall. Both species have yellow flowers and are used in traditional medicine for their medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Gamblea |
Appearance
Gamblea lutea has small, ovate leaves that are about 3-5 cm long and 2-3 cm wide. The yellow flowers are about 2-3 cm in diameter and are borne in clusters. The fruits are capsules that are about 1-2 cm long and contain numerous small seeds.Gamblea macrophylla has larger leaves that are up to 25 cm long and 20 cm wide. The yellow flowers are also larger than those of Gamblea lutea, measuring about 5-7 cm in diameter. The fruits are also larger, measuring about 3-4 cm long.
Care Guide
Gamblea plants prefer well-draining soil and require regular watering during the growing season. They can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. They prefer full sun to partial shade and are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gamblea plants are relatively pest and disease-free, but they can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too moist. They can also be affected by spider mites, which can be treated with a mild insecticide.
Habitat
Gamblea plants are native to South America, where they grow in tropical and subtropical regions. They are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and scrublands.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Gamblea plants be grown indoors?
A: Gamblea plants can be grown indoors, but they require bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should Gamblea plants be watered?
A: Gamblea plants should be watered regularly during the growing season, but they should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Are Gamblea plants toxic to pets?
A: There is no information available on whether Gamblea plants are toxic to pets.
Q: Can Gamblea plants be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Gamblea plants can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
- Abutilon
- Hibiscus
- Lavatera
- Malva
References
- https://www.gbif.org/species/3167890
- https://www.biodiversitylibrary.org/page/15001556#page/111/mode/1up
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/gamblea/growing-gamblea-plants.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/100637/gamblea-lutea/details
