Contents
Description
Badula is a small, evergreen tree that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is native to Sri Lanka and is also known as the Sri Lankan Croton. The plant has a bushy appearance with beautiful, glossy green leaves and bright red or yellow flowers. This plant is considered to be an important medicinal plant in Sri Lanka and has been used for centuries to treat various ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Badula |
Appearance
The Badula plant has a bushy and dense appearance, with glossy, oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color. The leaves are 3-5 inches long and have a pointed tip. The plant produces small, bright red or yellow flowers that bloom in clusters. The flowers are followed by small, round fruits that turn from green to yellow as they ripen. The plant can grow up to 20 feet tall in its natural habitat.
Care Guide
Badula is a low-maintenance plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: The plant needs to be watered regularly, but make sure the soil is not waterlogged as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once every month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight, but can also tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Badula can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Badula is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. If you notice white, cotton-like spots on the leaves, it may be a sign of mealybugs. Spider mites can cause yellowing of the leaves and the presence of fine webbing on the plant. Treat these pests with a neem oil spray or insecticidal soap. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Badula is native to Sri Lanka and can be found in the wet zone forests of the country. It grows best in warm, humid climates and prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can grow up to 20 feet tall in its natural habitat and is often used for its medicinal properties.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Badula a good indoor plant?
A: Yes, Badula can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect sunlight and regular watering.
Q: How often should Badula be fertilized?
A: Badula should be fertilized once every month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Badula be grown in colder climates?
A: Badula is best suited for warm, humid climates and can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Q: Is Badula a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Badula is considered to be an important medicinal plant in Sri Lanka and has been used for centuries to treat various ailments.
Related Plants
- Croton
- Schefflera
- Dracaena
- Aglaonema
References
- “Badula – Sri Lankan Croton.” Gardening Know How. Accessed August 14, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/badula-sri-lankan-croton.htm.
- “Badula.” The Plant List. Accessed August 14, 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/browse/A/Euphorbiaceae/Badula/.
- “Badula.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 14, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287033.
