Mackaya

Description

Mackaya belongs to the Acanthaceae family and is native to southern Africa. It is a shrub that can grow up to 3 meters in height and has a spread of 2 meters. It is commonly known as the forest bell bush because of its bell-shaped flowers. The flowers are either lavender or white and have a pleasant fragrance. Mackaya is a popular garden plant because of its beautiful flowers and its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Lamiales
Family	Acanthaceae
Genus	Mackaya

Appearance

Mackaya has glossy, dark green leaves that are about 10 centimeters long and 5 centimeters wide. The leaves are arranged oppositely on the stems. The flowers of Mackaya are bell-shaped and either lavender or white. They are about 3 centimeters long and grow in clusters at the ends of the stems. The flowers have a pleasant fragrance and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Care Guide

Mackaya is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It needs to be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. Mackaya should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. It prefers partial shade but can also tolerate full sun. Mackaya is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Mackaya is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Mackaya can also be prone to root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly-drained soil.

Habitat

Mackaya is native to southern Africa and is found in forests and woodlands. It prefers a warm and humid climate and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. Mackaya is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should Mackaya be watered?

A: Mackaya should be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.

Q: What fertilizer should be used for Mackaya?

A: Mackaya should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: What are the hardiness zones for Mackaya?

A: Mackaya is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Q: What pests and diseases can affect Mackaya?

A: Mackaya can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. It can also be prone to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly-drained soil.

Related Plants

• Justicia brandegeeana
• Ruellia makoyana
• Strobilanthes dyerianus

References

• “Mackaya bella.” Plantz Africa, SANBI, 2021, www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/mackayabell.htm.
• “Mackaya bella.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281571.
• “Mackaya bella.” Royal Horticultural Society, 2021, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/141734/Mackaya-bella/Details.