Contents
Description
Thereianthus Bracteolatus is a flowering plant that belongs to the madder family, Rubiaceae. It is native to the tropical regions of Africa, specifically in Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This plant is also known by its common names, African Jasmine and Congo Cockspur. The plant has a shrub-like growth habit that can reach up to 1.5 meters in height. It produces small, fragrant white flowers that bloom in clusters from summer to fall. The flowers are followed by small, round, black fruits that contain one seed each.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Thereianthus |
| Species | Bracteolatus |
Appearance
Thereianthus Bracteolatus has dark green, glossy leaves that are opposite and elliptical in shape. The leaves can grow up to 12 cm long and 5 cm wide. The plant’s stems are woody and brown in color. The flowers of Thereianthus Bracteolatus are small, white, and star-shaped. They have a sweet fragrance that is most potent during the evening. The flowers grow in clusters and can reach up to 2 cm in diameter. The plant produces small, round, black fruits that are about 0.5 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
Thereianthus Bracteolatus is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Thereianthus Bracteolatus prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. – Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. – Soil: Thereianthus Bracteolatus prefers slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. – Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full sun. – Hardiness Zones: Thereianthus Bracteolatus is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Thereianthus Bracteolatus is relatively pest and disease-free. However, here are some common problems that may affect this plant:- Scale insects: These insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause leaves to yellow and drop. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of them. – Spider mites: These pests can cause leaves to become speckled and discolored. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of them. – Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, which can lead to the death of the plant. Make sure to water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Habitat
Thereianthus Bracteolatus is native to the tropical regions of Africa, specifically in Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It grows in the understorey of forests and in savannas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Thereianthus Bracteolatus a good indoor plant?
A: Yes, Thereianthus Bracteolatus can be grown indoors as long as it receives sufficient sunlight.
Q: Can Thereianthus Bracteolatus tolerate cold temperatures?
A: No, Thereianthus Bracteolatus is not frost-tolerant and should be kept in a warm environment.
Q: How often should I fertilize Thereianthus Bracteolatus?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How tall can Thereianthus Bracteolatus grow?
A: Thereianthus Bracteolatus can reach up to 1.5 meters in height.
Related Plants
– Thereianthus Campanulatus- Thereianthus Delphinensis- Thereianthus Elegans- Thereianthus Fulgens
References
– The Plant List. (n.d.). Thereianthus bracteolatus (Hiern) F.White. Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-204441- Tropicos. (n.d.). Thereianthus bracteolatus (Hiern) F.White. Retrieved from http://www.tropicos.org/Name/100299819- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Thereianthus bracteolatus. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b904
