Contents
Description
Talinum Caffrum, also known as Pink Fame Flower, is a perennial plant that is native to Southern Africa. The plant can grow up to 12 inches tall and has a spreading habit. Talinum Caffrum blooms in the summer months, producing small, bright pink flowers that are arranged in clusters. The flowers are followed by small, black seed pods.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Talinaceae |
| Genus | Talinum |
Appearance
Talinum Caffrum has small, green leaves that are arranged alternately along the stem. The leaves are ovate in shape and have a wavy margin. The plant has a spreading habit and can form a dense groundcover. The bright pink flowers of Talinum Caffrum are small, measuring approximately 1 cm in diameter. They are arranged in clusters at the end of the stems and have five petals. The flowers bloom in the summer months and are followed by small, black seed pods.
Care Guide
Talinum Caffrum requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Sandy soil is ideal for this plant. The plant should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater. Fertilization should be done once a month during the growing season. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Talinum Caffrum is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Talinum Caffrum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be prone to root rot if overwatered. Slugs and snails may also be attracted to the plant.
Habitat
Talinum Caffrum is native to South Africa and can be found growing in sandy soil in open grasslands and savannas. The plant can also be found growing in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Talinum Caffrum be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Talinum Caffrum can be grown in a container as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant is watered regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize Talinum Caffrum?
A: Fertilization should be done once a month during the growing season.
Q: What should I do if my Talinum Caffrum is overwatered?
A: If your Talinum Caffrum is overwatered, allow the soil to dry out before watering again. If the plant is severely affected, it may be necessary to repot it in fresh soil.
Q: How hardy is Talinum Caffrum?
A: Talinum Caffrum is hardy in zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Talinum paniculatum
- Talinum calycinum
- Talinum triangulare
References
- “Talinum caffrum.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/talinumcaff.htm. Accessed 16 Nov. 2021.
- “Talinum caffrum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e553. Accessed 16 Nov. 2021.
