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Description
Phygelius Capensis, commonly known as Cape Fuchsia, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the family Scrophulariaceae. It is native to South Africa and is popular among gardeners due to its attractive flowers, which bloom from late spring to early autumn. The plant grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has a clumping habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Phygelius |
Appearance
The Phygelius Capensis plant has lance-shaped leaves that are arranged oppositely on the stem. The leaves are dark green and have a slightly toothed edge. The flowers of the plant are tubular and have a bright red or pink color. They are about 2-3 cm long and grow in clusters at the end of the stem. The flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies to the garden.
Care Guide
Water
The Phygelius Capensis plant requires regular watering during the growing season. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization
Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal.
Sunlight
The Phygelius Capensis plant requires full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but blooms best in full sun.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy to USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Phygelius Capensis plant is generally healthy and not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. Regular inspection of the plant can help prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
Habitat
The Phygelius Capensis plant is native to South Africa and is commonly found in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. It grows in moist areas such as riverbanks and forests.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Phygelius Capensis plant deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant.
Q: Can the plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should the plant be pruned?
A: Prune the plant in early spring to promote bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged stems.
Q: Can the plant be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in the spring.
Related Plants
- Phygelius Aequalis
- Phygelius Albus
- Phygelius X Rectus
References
- “Phygelius Capensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on 17 May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b685
- “Phygelius Capensis.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed on 17 May 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/5569/Phygelius-capensis/Details
- “Cape Fuchsia (Phygelius Capensis).” Gardenia. Accessed on 17 May 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/phygelius-capensis-cape-fuchsia
