Contents
Description
Barleria Obtusa, commonly known as Bush Violet, is a small, evergreen shrub that belongs to the Acanthaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is widely cultivated worldwide for its attractive, violet-blue flowers that bloom throughout the year in warm climates. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and has a spread of 1 meter. It has a bushy growth habit with an upright stem and dense foliage of shiny, dark green leaves. The flowers are trumpet-shaped, about 3 cm long, and grow in clusters at the stem tips.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Barleria |
Appearance
The Barleria Obtusa has an attractive appearance with its violet-blue flowers and shiny, dark green leaves. The leaves are opposite, ovate, and up to 10 cm long. The flowers are trumpet-shaped, about 3 cm long, and grow in clusters at the stem tips. They have five petals, two upper and three lower, and a long calyx. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and has a spread of 1 meter. It has a bushy growth habit with an upright stem and dense foliage of shiny, dark green leaves.
Care Guide
Barleria Obtusa is easy to grow with proper care. Here’s what you need to know:
- Water: The plant needs regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every six months to promote healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant requires partial shade to full sun exposure to thrive. Avoid direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Barleria Obtusa is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. The plant may also be prone to root rot if overwatered, and leaf spot if the foliage is kept wet for extended periods. Treat pests and diseases promptly with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Barleria Obtusa is native to South Africa and is commonly found in grasslands, savannas, and woodlands. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks worldwide.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Barleria Obtusa?
A: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
Q: Can Barleria Obtusa tolerate full sun exposure?
A: Yes, the plant requires partial shade to full sun exposure to thrive. Avoid direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Barleria Obtusa?
A: The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Q: How do I treat mealybugs on Barleria Obtusa?
A: Treat mealybugs with an appropriate pesticide or by wiping them off the plant with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Related Plants
- Barleria Cristata
- Barleria Lupulina
- Barleria Prionitis
References
- “Barleria Obtusa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282729.
- “Barleria Obtusa.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/barlerobtusa.htm.
- “Barleria Obtusa (Bush Violet).” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/bush-violet/barleria-obtusa-care.htm.
