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Description
Matelea Petiolaris, commonly known as the “Pearl Milkweed Vine,” is a species of perennial vine that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to the southern United States, particularly in Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. This vine is known for its unique and stunning white blooms that resemble pearls. It can grow up to 15 feet long and is a great addition to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Matelea |
Appearance
The Matelea Petiolaris vine has a woody stem and can grow up to 15 feet long. Its leaves are glossy and oval-shaped, measuring about 4 inches in length. The Pearl Milkweed Vine produces clusters of small, white flowers that bloom in early summer and last until early fall. The flowers have a unique, almost star-like shape with a small, dangling fringe. After blooming, the vine produces seed pods that are around 2 inches long and contain several seeds.
Care Guide
Matelea Petiolaris is a relatively low-maintenance plant to care for. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:
Water: The Pearl Milkweed Vine prefers well-draining soil and needs to be watered regularly. Make sure the soil doesn’t dry out completely, but avoid overwatering as well.
Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.
Soil: The Pearl Milkweed Vine prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH (around 6.0).
Sunlight: This vine prefers full to partial sun exposure. Make sure it gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Matelea Petiolaris can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pearl Milkweed Vine is generally not prone to pests and diseases. However, here are some issues to look out for:
Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
Whiteflies: These pests can also infest the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry out. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can cause root rot, which can lead to the plant’s death. Make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Matelea Petiolaris is native to the southern United States, particularly in Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. It grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, prairies, and pastures. It is often found growing along roadsides, fences, and in open fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Matelea Petiolaris poisonous?
A: Yes, the Pearl Milkweed Vine is toxic if ingested. Keep it away from children and pets.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Pearl Milkweed Vine?
A: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.
Q: Can I grow Matelea Petiolaris in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow this vine in a container as long as it has enough room to grow and the soil is well-draining.
Q: Does Matelea Petiolaris attract butterflies?
A: Yes, this vine is known to attract butterflies.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants in the Apocynaceae family:
- Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly weed)
- Nerium oleander (Oleander)
- Plumeria spp. (Frangipani)
- Adenium obesum (Desert rose)
References
- “Matelea Petiolaris.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Accessed 27 July 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=MAPET
- “Pearl Milkweed Vine (Matelea petiolaris).” Dave’s Garden, Accessed 27 July 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/100950/
- “Matelea petiolaris.” Missouri Botanical Garden, Accessed 27 July 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282351&isprofile=0&
