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Description
Saintpaulia Madison Red is a stunning flowering plant native to East Africa. It is a member of the Gesneriaceae family and is commonly referred to as African Violet. This perennial plant can grow up to 6 inches in height and produces beautiful, vibrant red blooms that last for several weeks. The plant has a compact growth habit and is ideal for indoor gardening.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus | Saintpaulia |
Appearance
The Saintpaulia Madison Red plant has dark green, velvety leaves that are fuzzy to the touch. The leaves are approximately 2-3 inches in diameter and grow in a rosette formation. The plant produces beautiful, vibrant red blooms that are approximately 1 inch in diameter. The blooms have a white center and are produced on long, thin stems that grow up from the center of the plant. The plant has a compact growth habit and is ideal for small spaces.
Care Guide
The Saintpaulia Madison Red plant requires specific care to thrive. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid getting water on the leaves as this can cause spotting.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix designed for African Violets.
- Sunlight: Place the plant in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Saintpaulia Madison Red is best suited for hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Saintpaulia Madison Red is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Treat with an insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: These pests can cause distorted growth and discoloration of the leaves. Treat with an insecticidal soap.
- Crown Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can cause the plant to wilt and die. Reduce watering and remove any affected leaves.
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by fungal spores and can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove any affected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Saintpaulia Madison Red is native to Tanzania and Kenya in East Africa. The plant grows in the shade of trees and rocks in the highlands of these regions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Saintpaulia Madison Red plant?
A: Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid getting water on the leaves as this can cause spotting.
Q: Can I grow Saintpaulia Madison Red outdoors?
A: Saintpaulia Madison Red is best suited for indoor gardening, but it can be grown outdoors in hardiness zones 10-11.
Q: How tall does Saintpaulia Madison Red grow?
A: Saintpaulia Madison Red can grow up to 6 inches in height.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Saintpaulia Madison Red?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer designed for African Violets and fertilize the plant once a month.
Related Plants
- Saintpaulia Ionantha
- Saintpaulia Ionantha Variegata
- Saintpaulia Ionantha Optimara
- Saintpaulia Ionantha Rob’s Blue
References
- “African Violet Society of America.” African Violet Society of America, www.avsa.org/.
- “Saintpaulia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278627&isprofile=0&.
- “Saintpaulia Madison Red.” The Flowering Garden, www.thefloweringgarden.co.uk/saintpaulia-madison-red.htm.
