Contents
Description
Antirhea Chinensis, commonly known as Chinese Antirhea, is a flowering plant native to China, Taiwan and the Philippines. It belongs to the Rubiaceae family and is a small evergreen tree or shrub that can grow up to 10 meters in height. The plant produces clusters of small white or yellow flowers that bloom in the summer, followed by small berries that turn red when ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Antirhea |
Appearance
The leaves of Antirhea Chinensis are simple, opposite, and glossy. They are dark green in color and have an elliptical shape that grows up to 10 cm long and 5 cm wide. The flowers of the plant are small, white or yellow in color, and are arranged in clusters of 2-5 flowers. The fruit of the plant is a small, red berry that is about 1 cm in diameter. The plant is a slow grower and can take up to 10 years to reach its full height and spread.
Care Guide
Antirhea Chinensis prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels but prefers a slightly acidic soil. The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater. It is recommended to fertilize the plant with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and again in the fall. Antirhea Chinensis prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Antirhea Chinensis is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with an insecticidal soap spray or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Antirhea Chinensis is native to China, Taiwan and the Philippines, where it grows in forests and along streams at elevations of up to 1200 meters. It prefers a warm and humid climate and can grow in both full sun and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Antirhea Chinensis poisonous?
A: No, Antirhea Chinensis is not toxic to humans or animals.
Q: Can Antirhea Chinensis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Antirhea Chinensis can be grown in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Antirhea Chinensis?
A: It is recommended to fertilize Antirhea Chinensis with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and again in the fall.
Q: How tall does Antirhea Chinensis grow?
A: Antirhea Chinensis can grow up to 10 meters in height.
Related Plants
- Antirhea Borbonica
- Antirhea Macrophylla
- Antirhea Oblongifolia
References
- “Antirhea Chinensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279135&isprofile=0&basic=antirhea%20chinensis.
- “Antirhea Chinensis.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/antirheachin.htm.
- “Antirhea Chinensis.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, www.kew.org/wcsp/namedetail.do?name_id=11495.
