Contents
Description
Phyllodium Pulchellum, also known as the “Pink Butterfly Bush,” is a flowering shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to South America and is widely grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks worldwide. The Pink Butterfly Bush can grow up to 3 meters tall and has an upright growth habit. It produces clusters of small, pink, butterfly-shaped flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are fragrant and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Phyllodium |
Appearance
Phyllodium Pulchellum has an upright growth habit and can grow up to 3 meters tall. It has dark green, lance-shaped leaves that measure 10-15 cm long and 2-4 cm wide. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and have a smooth texture. The Pink Butterfly Bush produces clusters of small, pink, butterfly-shaped flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are fragrant and measure 1.5 cm in diameter. The fruit of the Pink Butterfly Bush is a pod that measures 5-10 cm long and 1-1.5 cm wide.
Care Guide
To care for Phyllodium Pulchellum, provide it with regular watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer. The Pink Butterfly Bush prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of hardiness zones from 9a to 11b.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phyllodium Pulchellum is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The Pink Butterfly Bush can also be susceptible to root rot, which can be prevented by providing well-drained soil and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Phyllodium Pulchellum is native to South America and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and forests. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of climatic conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time to prune Phyllodium Pulchellum?
A: The best time to prune Phyllodium Pulchellum is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Q: How often should I fertilize Pink Butterfly Bush?
A: Fertilize Pink Butterfly Bush with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer.
Q: Can Phyllodium Pulchellum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Phyllodium Pulchellum can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How can I propagate Phyllodium Pulchellum?
A: Phyllodium Pulchellum can be propagated by taking softwood cuttings in the summer or by layering in the spring.
Related Plants
- Phyllodium elegans
- Phyllodium pulcherrimum
- Phyllodium rheedii
References
- “Phyllodium Pulchellum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c310.
- “Pink Butterfly Bush.” Monrovia, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/3203/pink-butterfly-bush/.
- Wagner, Warren L., et al. “Phyllodium.” Flora of Ecuador, vol. 63, 1999, pp. 257–259., doi:10.2307/41766678.
