Contents
Description
Parsonsia Heterophylla, commonly known as the Climbing Milkweed or New Zealand Jasmine, is a climbing vine native to New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. It belongs to the family Apocynaceae, which is characterized by the presence of milky sap in the stems and leaves. It is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 10 meters in height, and it produces clusters of white or pale pink flowers in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Parsonsia |
Appearance
The leaves of the Parsonsia Heterophylla are oval-shaped, glossy, and dark green. They can grow up to 15 cm in length, and they are arranged alternately on the stem. The flowers are small and fragrant, and they are borne in clusters of 10-20. They have five petals and a small central tube, and they are white or pale pink in color. The fruit of the plant is a long, narrow pod, which can reach up to 15 cm in length. When the pod dries, it splits open to release numerous seeds that are attached to silky fibers, allowing them to be easily carried by the wind.
Care Guide
The Parsonsia Heterophylla prefers a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires moderate watering, and it should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. The plant prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, but it can tolerate full sun if it is well-watered. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, but it can be grown as an annual in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Parsonsia Heterophylla is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by leaf spot, which is caused by fungal infections. This can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
The Parsonsia Heterophylla is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, coastal areas, and rocky outcrops. It is a common sight in New Zealand, where it is known as the New Zealand Jasmine, and it is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including rheumatism, diarrhea, and skin infections.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Parsonsia Heterophylla poisonous?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic if ingested in large quantities. It contains cardiac glycosides, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and irregular heartbeats in humans and animals.
Q: Can the Parsonsia Heterophylla be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect light and a well-drained soil. It is also important to avoid overwatering, as the plant is susceptible to root rot.
Q: Does the Parsonsia Heterophylla attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the plant is a good source of nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How do I propagate the Parsonsia Heterophylla?
A: The plant can be propagated by taking stem cuttings in the spring or summer. The cuttings should be placed in a well-drained soil mix and kept in a warm, humid environment until they develop roots.
Related Plants
- Parsonsia Alboflavescens
- Parsonsia Capsularis
- Parsonsia Lanceolata
- Parsonsia Lichuanensis
References
- “Parsonsia heterophylla”. New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Retrieved 2021-07-19.
- “Parsonsia heterophylla”. Florabank. Retrieved 2021-07-19.
- “Parsonsia heterophylla”. Plants of the World Online. Retrieved 2021-07-19.
