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Description
Ancistrocladus Tectorius, commonly known as the “Hairy Climbing Shrub,” is a climbing plant that belongs to the family Ancistrocladaceae. It is native to regions of tropical Africa, including Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo. The plant is characterized by its hairy stems, which can grow up to 10 meters in length.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ancistrocladaceae |
| Genus | Ancistrocladus |
Appearance
Ancistrocladus Tectorius has large, glossy, dark-green leaves that measure up to 20cm in length. The plant also produces small, yellow-green flowers that are grouped in clusters. The stems of the plant are covered in fine, white hairs, giving it a soft and fuzzy appearance. The plant produces a fruit that is green and turns black when ripe. The fruit measures up to 3cm in diameter and has a hard, woody shell.
Care Guide
Ancistrocladus Tectorius requires a moderate amount of care to thrive. It prefers well-draining soil and requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. It requires bright, indirect sunlight and should be placed in a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. The plant is hardy in zones 10 and 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ancistrocladus Tectorius is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to root rot if overwatered, which can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage.
Habitat
Ancistrocladus Tectorius is native to regions of tropical Africa, including Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo. It is commonly found in forests and other shaded areas with high humidity.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ancistrocladus Tectorius be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Ancistrocladus Tectorius can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a location that receives at least six hours of bright, indirect sunlight per day.
Q: What is the best fertilizer to use for Ancistrocladus Tectorius?
A: A balanced fertilizer is best for Ancistrocladus Tectorius. It should be applied every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: How often should Ancistrocladus Tectorius be watered?
A: Ancistrocladus Tectorius should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. The frequency of watering will depend on the temperature and humidity of the environment.
Q: Does Ancistrocladus Tectorius require pruning?
A: Ancistrocladus Tectorius does not require pruning but can be trimmed to control its size or shape.
Related Plants
- Ancistrocladus Korupensis
- Ancistrocladus Barteri
- Ancistrocladus Thomassetii
References
- “Ancistrocladus Tectorius.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c694.
- “Ancistrocladus Tectorius.” Plantz Africa, www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/ancistroctec.htm.
- “Ancistrocladus Tectorius.” The Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/9609/Ancistrocladus-tectorius/Details.
