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Description
Oreocharis Benthamii Var. Reticulata, commonly known as the net-veined Oreocharis, is a beautiful flowering plant belonging to the family Gesneriaceae. It is native to the Yunnan and Sichuan provinces of China and was first described by a British botanist George Bentham in 1882. The plant is known for its unique appearance, with its leaves having a distinctive net-like pattern of veins and small purple, pink, or white flowers that bloom in clusters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus | Oreocharis |
| Species | Benthamii |
| Variety | Reticulata |
Appearance
The net-veined Oreocharis has attractive foliage, with its leaves being velvety and dark green in color. The leaves have a distinctive pattern of veins that resemble a net. The plant produces small, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in clusters at the end of the stems. The flowers can be purple, pink, or white in color and have a yellow throat. The plant can grow up to 30 cm in height and spreads horizontally. It is a great choice for indoor gardening and can be grown in small pots.
Care Guide
The net-veined Oreocharis requires moderate care and attention. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:Water: The plant prefers moist soil but does not like standing water. Water the plant regularly but make sure the soil is well-drained.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: The net-veined Oreocharis is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The net-veined Oreocharis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Keep an eye out for these pests and treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
Habitat
The net-veined Oreocharis is native to the Yunnan and Sichuan provinces of China. It grows in mountainous regions and prefers well-draining soil. The plant is often found growing on rocky slopes and forest edges.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the net-veined Oreocharis a good indoor plant?
A: Yes, the net-veined Oreocharis is a great choice for indoor gardening.Q: How often should I water the plant?
A: Water the plant regularly but make sure the soil is well-drained. Avoid standing water.Q: What kind of soil does the plant prefer?
A: The net-veined Oreocharis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect the plant?
A: The plant can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the net-veined Oreocharis:
- Oreocharis Dasyantha
- Oreocharis Fimbriata
- Oreocharis Grandiflora
- Oreocharis Pumila
References
- “Oreocharis Benthamii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282002. Accessed 23 May 2021.
- “Oreocharis Benthamii Var. Reticulata.” World of Flowering Plants, www.worldoffloweringplants.com/oreocharis-benthamii-var-reticulata-net-veined-oreocharis.html. Accessed 23 May 2021.
- “Net-veined Oreocharis.” Logee’s Plants for Home & Garden, www.logees.com/net-veined-oreocharis.html. Accessed 23 May 2021.
