Contents
Description
Pseuderanthemum Variabile, also known as the False Eranthemum, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Acanthaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. Pseuderanthemum Variabile is a popular ornamental plant due to its colorful foliage and attractive flowers. It is commonly grown in gardens and as a houseplant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Kingdom| Phylum| Class| Order| Family| Genus||————|————|————|————|————|————|—————|| Eukarya| Plantae| Angiosperms| Eudicots| Lamiales| Acanthaceae| Pseuderanthemum|
Appearance
Pseuderanthemum Variabile has green leaves with a purple tint and a velvety texture. The leaves are ovate or elliptical in shape and can grow up to 5 inches long. The plant produces small, tubular flowers that are white or pale pink in color. The flowers are arranged in spikes that grow up to 10 inches long. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
Pseuderanthemum Variabile is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly. However, make sure not to overwater it as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Pseuderanthemum Variabile is hardy in USDA Zones 10-11.
Common Pests and Diseases
Pseuderanthemum Variabile is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the plant and cause yellowing of the leaves. You can control them by spraying the plant with a solution of water and dish soap.- Mealybugs: These insects can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. You can control them by wiping the leaves with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.- Fungal leaf spot: This disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. You can control it by removing the affected leaves and improving the air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Pseuderanthemum Variabile is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows in tropical and subtropical forests. It prefers well-drained soil and bright, indirect light.
Questions and Answers
Q: How often should I water Pseuderanthemum Variabile?
A: Water the plant regularly, but make sure not to overwater it as this can lead to root rot.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pseuderanthemum Variabile?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA Zones 10-11.Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for Pseuderanthemum Variabile?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).Q: What pests and diseases should I watch out for?
A: Watch out for spider mites, mealybugs, and fungal leaf spot.
Related Plants
– Pseuderanthemum Carruthersii- Pseuderanthemum Reticulatum- Pseuderanthemum Atropurpureum- Pseuderanthemum Palatiferum
References
– “Pseuderanthemum Variabile.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 24 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281272&isprofile=0&.- “Pseuderanthemum Variabile.” Gardening Know How. Accessed 24 June 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/false-eranthemum/growing-false-eranthemum.htm.- “Pseuderanthemum Variabile.” Plant Care Today. Accessed 24 June 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/pseuderanthemum-eranthemoides.html.
