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Description
Atractocarpus Benthamianus is a species of flowering plant native to tropical Africa. It belongs to the family Rubiaceae and is commonly known as the “Pincushion Plant” due to its ball-shaped appearance. It can grow up to 2 meters in height and produces small, white, bell-shaped flowers that bloom from May to September. The fruit of this plant is a spherical berry that is green when young and turns yellow or red when ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Atractocarpus |
Appearance
Atractocarpus Benthamianus has a compact, round shape with glossy, green leaves that are 5-10 cm long and 2-4 cm wide. The plant’s stems are woody and can produce occasional thorns. The flowers are small, white, and bell-shaped, and grow in clusters on the ends of the branches. The fruit is a berry that is spherical and about 1 cm in diameter. When ripe, the fruit turns yellow or red and has a slightly sweet taste.
Care Guide
Water
This plant prefers consistently moist soil, but it is important not to overwater it, as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Atractocarpus Benthamianus benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer that has equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Soil
This plant prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight
Atractocarpus Benthamianus prefers partial shade, but it can tolerate full sun as long as it is not in direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones
This plant is hardy in USDA Zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Atractocarpus Benthamianus is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. It may also be prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot.
Habitat
Atractocarpus Benthamianus is native to tropical Africa and can be found growing in forests and woodlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Atractocarpus Benthamianus a good indoor plant?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors as long as it is given enough light and water.
Q: Can Atractocarpus Benthamianus be grown in a hanging basket?
A: Yes, it can be grown in a hanging basket as long as it is watered regularly and given enough light.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Atractocarpus Benthamianus?
A: It should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: How often should I water my Atractocarpus Benthamianus?
A: It should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry.
Related Plants
- Atractocarpus Bracteatus
- Atractocarpus Fitzalanii
- Atractocarpus Hirtus
- Atractocarpus Kirki
References
- “Atractocarpus Benthamianus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a529.
- “Atractocarpus Benthamianus.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/atractocarbenth.htm.
