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Description
Anthospermum Aethiopicum is a flowering plant that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is native to Africa, particularly in Ethiopia, where it is commonly called “Bishoftu.” The plant has many medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. It is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall. The leaves are simple, opposite, and glossy green. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant. The fruit is a drupe that turns black when ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Anthospermum |
| Species | Aethiopicum |
Appearance
Anthospermum Aethiopicum is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall. The leaves are simple, opposite, and glossy green. They are elliptical or ovate in shape and can be up to 15 cm long. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant. They are tubular in shape and have five petals. The fruit is a drupe that turns black when ripe.
Care Guide
Anthospermum Aethiopicum is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Anthospermum Aethiopicum can be grown in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Anthospermum Aethiopicum is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to leaf spot and root rot if overwatered. Aphids and spider mites may also infest the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Anthospermum Aethiopicum is native to Africa, particularly in Ethiopia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and grasslands. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Anthospermum Aethiopicum poisonous?
A: No, Anthospermum Aethiopicum is not poisonous. In fact, it has many medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Q: Can Anthospermum Aethiopicum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Anthospermum Aethiopicum can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate sunlight and is not overwatered.
Q: How often should Anthospermum Aethiopicum be fertilized?
A: Anthospermum Aethiopicum should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Anthospermum Aethiopicum tolerate frost?
A: No, Anthospermum Aethiopicum is not frost-tolerant and should be grown in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Related Plants
- Anthospermum dawei
- Anthospermum eminens
- Anthospermum floribundum
- Anthospermum laurifolium
- Anthospermum mannii
References
- “Anthospermum Aethiopicum.” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 23 Sept. 2021.
- “Anthospermum Aethiopicum.” Useful Tropical Plants. Useful Tropical Plants Database, n.d. Web. 23 Sept. 2021.
- “Anthospermum Aethiopicum.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. The Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, n.d. Web. 23 Sept. 2021.
