Metapetrocosmea

Description

Metapetrocosmea is a genus of flowering plants, belonging to the family Gesneriaceae, which is native to the high-altitude regions of China. The plant has a compact and bushy growth habit and produces beautiful, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of pink, red, purple, and white, attracting pollinators like hummingbirds and bees.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Metapetrocosmea is a small and compact plant, growing up to a height of 10-15 cm. It has heart-shaped leaves that are hairy and green in color. The flowers are trumpet-shaped with five petals and a prominent throat, blooming in clusters at the end of each stem. They come in shades of pink, red, purple, and white and have yellow markings in the throat. The plant produces flowers in the summer and fall seasons.

Care Guide

Metapetrocosmea is a relatively easy plant to care for, requiring moderate attention and care. Here are some tips to take care of this beautiful plant:

• Water: Water the plant deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
• Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
• Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A potting mix that is specially formulated for Gesneriads would work well.
• Sunlight: Metapetrocosmea prefers bright but indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves and flowers.
• Hardiness Zones: Metapetrocosmea is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, making it suitable for outdoor cultivation in warmer regions.

Common Pests & Diseases

Metapetrocosmea is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that you may encounter while growing this plant:

• Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the plant, causing yellowing of leaves and webs on the plant. Use insecticidal soap to treat the infestation.
• Mealybugs: These white, cotton-like pests can feed on the plant, causing stunted growth and leaf drop. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to treat the infestation.
• Crown rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to crown rot, causing the plant to wilt and die. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.

Habitat

Metapetrocosmea is native to the high-altitude regions of China, growing in rocky crevices and cliffs. The plant prefers cool and moist conditions and can tolerate frost and snow.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Metapetrocosmea be grown indoors?

A: Yes, Metapetrocosmea can be grown indoors, provided it gets bright but indirect sunlight and is kept away from drafts and dry air.

Q: How often should I fertilize Metapetrocosmea?

A: You should fertilize Metapetrocosmea once a month during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer.

Q: Can Metapetrocosmea be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes, you can propagate Metapetrocosmea from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix.

Q: How long do the flowers of Metapetrocosmea last?

A: The flowers of Metapetrocosmea can last for several weeks, provided they are kept in bright but indirect sunlight and the plant is well-cared for.

Related Plants

• Achimenes
• Columnea
• Episcia
• Sinningia

References

• Metapetrocosmea. (n.d.). Retrieved September 21, 2021, from https://www.gesneriadsociety.org/gesneriad/metapetrocosmea/
• Metapetrocosmea. (2021, June 16). Retrieved September 21, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metapetrocosmea
• Gesneriad Reference Web. (n.d.). Retrieved September 21, 2021, from https://www.gesneriads.info/