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Description
Barthea Barthei, also known as the Barbados cherry, is a rare plant species that is found in the Caribbean islands, including Barbados, Trinidad, and Tobago. This evergreen shrub can grow up to 20 feet tall and produces small, cherry-like fruits that are edible and high in vitamin C.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Elatinaceae |
| Genus | Barthea |
Appearance
Barthea Barthei has a distinctive appearance with its glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and pointed at the tip. The shrub produces small white flowers in the spring and summer, which are followed by small, red, cherry-like fruits that are about 1 cm in diameter. The fruits have a sour taste and are often used to make preserves, jams, and juices.
Care Guide
Barthea Barthei requires moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some care tips to keep your plant healthy:- Water: Water your plant regularly, but do not let the soil become waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between watering.- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH level should be between 6.0 and 7.5.- Sunlight: Barthea Barthei prefers full sun to partial shade. Provide at least six hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Barthea Barthei is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Some common pests that can affect this plant include aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. To prevent pests and diseases, it is important to keep the plant healthy and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Barthea Barthei is native to the Caribbean islands, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and coastal areas. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate salty conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Barthea Barthei a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, this plant is relatively easy to care for and is a good choice for beginners.
Q: Can the fruits of Barthea Barthei be eaten?
A: Yes, the fruits are edible and are often used to make preserves, jams, and juices.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Barthea Barthei plant?
A: Fertilize your plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Barthea Barthei?
A: This plant is hardy in zones 10-11.
Related Plants
– Barthea albicaulis- Barthea eranthemoides- Barthea megacarpa
References
– “Barthea Barthei.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b664. Accessed 15 Sept. 2021.- “Barthea Barthei.” Plant Care Today, 4 Sept. 2020, plantcaretoday.com/barthea-barthei.html. Accessed 15 Sept. 2021.- “Barthea Barthei.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep538. Accessed 15 Sept. 2021.
