Contents
Description
Astianthus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Malvaceae, native to Southeast Asia. It is a small, annual herb that grows up to 30 cm tall. The flowers of Astianthus are white, pink or purple in color, with a diameter of 2 to 3 cm. The plant blooms from late summer to early fall, and the flowers are followed by small, round fruits that split into segments when ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Astianthus |
Appearance
Astianthus has a slender stem that is covered with fine white hairs. Its leaves are alternate, simple, and ovate in shape, with a length of 1 to 3.5 cm and a width of 0.5 to 1.5 cm. The flowers of Astianthus are solitary, axillary, and have five petals. They are usually white, pink or purple in color, and have a diameter of 2 to 3 cm. The plant produces small, round fruits that are 1 to 1.5 cm in diameter, and they split into segments when ripe.
Care Guide
Astianthus prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. The plant should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Astianthus requires full sun to partial shade, and it can grow in hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astianthus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. It may also be attacked by aphids or spider mites. In such cases, using insecticidal soap or neem oil can help keep the pests under control.
Habitat
Astianthus is native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia. It grows in open fields, along roadsides, and in waste areas. It prefers warm, humid climates and can grow in a variety of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Astianthus grow in cold climates?
A: No, Astianthus prefers warm, humid climates and cannot tolerate frost or cold temperatures.
Q: How often should Astianthus be fertilized?
A: Astianthus should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Does Astianthus require full sun or partial shade?
A: Astianthus requires full sun to partial shade.
Q: Is Astianthus resistant to pests and diseases?
A: Yes, Astianthus is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot and aphids or spider mites.
Related Plants
- Malva
- Hibiscus
- Abelmoschus
- Sida
- Althaea
References
- “Astianthus.” The Plant List. Accessed 15 May 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Malvaceae/Astianthus/
- “Astianthus.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Accessed 15 May 2021. http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=17023
- “Astianthus.” Flora of China. Accessed 15 May 2021. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=10662
