Contents
Description
Actephila Merrilliana is a shrub species belonging to the Phyllanthaceae family. It is endemic to the Philippines and can be found in the provinces of Kalinga and Abra. The species was named after Elmer D. Merrill, an American botanist who specialized in the flora of Southeast Asia.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Phyllanthaceae |
| Genus | Actephila |
Appearance
Actephila Merrilliana can grow up to 2 meters in height. Its leaves are glossy and elliptic, measuring about 8 to 14 centimeters in length and 3 to 5 centimeters in width. The petioles are about 1 to 1.5 centimeters long. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and grow in clusters of 3 to 5. The fruits are spherical and measure about 5 millimeters in diameter.
Care Guide
Actephila Merrilliana prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. It can tolerate partial shade but will grow best in full sunlight. Fertilize the plant once a month using a balanced fertilizer. It can tolerate a range of hardiness zones from 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Actephila Merrilliana is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Pests such as aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant.
Habitat
Actephila Merrilliana is native to the Philippines and can be found in the provinces of Kalinga and Abra. It grows in forests and on rocky slopes at elevations of 1,000 to 1,500 meters above sea level.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Actephila Merrilliana tolerate cold temperatures?
A: No, it cannot. It is only hardy in zones 9 to 11.
Q: How often should I water Actephila Merrilliana?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Q: How tall can Actephila Merrilliana grow?
A: It can grow up to 2 meters in height.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize Actephila Merrilliana?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Actephila Assimilis
- Actephila Callosa
- Actephila Euphlebia
- Actephila Incisa
References
- https://www.gbif.org/species/7885663
- https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/201661/2712205
- https://www.ijpab.com/form/2017%20Volume%205,%20issue%204/abstract/05.pdf
