Mankyua

Description

Mankyua is a genus of flowering plants native to China. It belongs to the family Asparagaceae, which includes over 3,000 species of monocots. The genus contains only one species, Mankyua chejuensis, which is also known as the Jeju Mankyua. The plant is named after the island where it was first discovered in 1992.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Mankyua is a small, herbaceous plant that grows up to 30 cm tall. It has a thick, fleshy stem that is covered in small, scale-like leaves. The plant produces small, greenish-white flowers that are arranged in a dense, spherical inflorescence. The flowers have six petals and are about 5 mm in diameter. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer.

Care Guide

Mankyua is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your Mankyua healthy:

Water

Mankyua prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not wet. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause the roots to rot.

Fertilization

Fertilize Mankyua once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.

Soil

Mankyua prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a high-quality potting mix that contains peat moss or coconut coir.

Sunlight

Mankyua prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.

Hardiness Zones

Mankyua is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Mankyua is generally free of pests and diseases, but here are some issues to watch out for:

Pests

• Spider mites
• Thrips
• Mealybugs

Diseases

• Fungal root rot
• Bacterial soft rot
• Viral infections

Habitat

Mankyua is native to the island of Jeju in South Korea. It grows in rocky areas and on cliffs, often in the shade of other plants. The plant is adapted to the island’s subtropical climate, which is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Mankyua an indoor or outdoor plant?

A: Mankyua can be grown both indoors and outdoors, but it prefers bright, indirect sunlight.

Q: How often should I water my Mankyua?

A: Water your Mankyua when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause the roots to rot.

Q: What is the best fertilizer for Mankyua?

A: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Do not fertilize during the winter months.

Q: Does Mankyua attract bees?

A: Mankyua produces small, greenish-white flowers that may attract bees and other pollinators.

Related Plants

• Asparagus
• Agave
• Yucca
• Liriope

References

• “Mankyua chejuensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 June 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=261559&isprofile=0&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=>
• “Mankyua chejuensis.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Accessed 15 June 2021. <http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=306938>
• “Mankyua chejuensis.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 15 June 2021. <http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:980564-1>