Lowiaceae
Contents
Description
Lowiaceae is a family of flowering plants that belong to the order Zingiberales. It consists of approximately 6 genera and 51 species, most of which are native to tropical regions of Asia and the Pacific. The plants in this family are herbaceous and grow from rhizomes. They have long leaves that are arranged spirally and flowers that are usually brightly colored and arranged in an inflorescence.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae | |||||
| Phylum | Angiosperms | |||||
| Class | Monocots | |||||
| Order | Zingiberales | |||||
| Family | Lowiaceae | |||||
| Genus | Lowia | Orchidantha | Phrynium | Spathiphylum | Stahlianthus | Zingerberopsis |
Appearance
The plants in the Lowiaceae family are known for their attractive appearance. They have long, lance-shaped leaves that are arranged spirally around the stem. The leaves can be either green or variegated and are often quite large. The flowers of Lowiaceae plants are usually brightly colored and arranged in an inflorescence. The inflorescence can be either terminal or axillary, and the flowers themselves are often quite showy. They have three sepals and three petals that are usually fused together, forming a tube. The fruit of Lowiaceae plants is usually a capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
To care for Lowiaceae plants, it is important to provide them with the right environment. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and should be watered regularly. Fertilization is also important, and a balanced fertilizer can be applied every 2-3 months during the growing season. These plants prefer bright, indirect light and do best in hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lowiaceae plants are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases. Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Common diseases include root rot and leaf spot, which can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and providing good air circulation.
Habitat
Lowiaceae plants are native to tropical regions of Asia and the Pacific. They grow in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, swamps, and savannas. These plants prefer warm, humid environments and do best in areas with consistent rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best soil for Lowiaceae plants?
A: Lowiaceae plants prefer moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.Q: Can Lowiaceae plants tolerate full sun?
A: No, Lowiaceae plants prefer bright, indirect light and should be protected from direct sunlight.Q: How often should I fertilize my Lowiaceae plants?
A: A balanced fertilizer can be applied every 2-3 months during the growing season.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lowiaceae plants?
A: Lowiaceae plants do best in hardiness zones 10-12.
Related Plants
Other members of the order Zingiberales include:
- Banana (Musa spp.)
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
- Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum)
- Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
- Canna lily (Canna spp.)
- Bird of paradise (Strelitzia spp.)
References
- “Lowiaceae.” Encyclopedia Britannica. Accessed 22 June 2021. https://www.britannica.com/plant/Lowiaceae.
- “Lowiaceae.” World Flora Online. Accessed 22 June 2021. http://www.worldfloraonline.org/taxon/wfo-4000000077.
- “Lowiaceae.” The Plant List. Accessed 22 June 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Lowiaceae/.
