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Description
Barleria Ovata, commonly known as the Philippine violet or violet bell, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the family Acanthaceae. It is native to the Philippines and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive appearance and easy care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Barleria |
Appearance
The Barleria Ovata plant typically grows to a height of 1-2 feet and can spread up to 3 feet. It has glossy, dark green leaves that are lance-shaped and grow up to 8 inches long. The plant produces clusters of tubular, violet flowers that are bell-shaped and up to 1 inch in length. The flowers bloom in the summer and fall, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Barleria Ovata is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant the Barleria Ovata in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Barleria Ovata plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies. In addition, overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to wilt and turn yellow.
Habitat
Barleria Ovata is native to the Philippines and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers well-draining soil and can grow in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and coastal areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Barleria Ovata plant toxic to pets?
A: No, the plant is not toxic to pets, but it is always wise to keep pets away from plants.
Q: Can the Barleria Ovata plant tolerate drought?
A: While the plant can tolerate some drought, it prefers to be kept moist and will not thrive if allowed to dry out completely.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Barleria Ovata plant?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can the Barleria Ovata plant be grown indoors?
A: The plant can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location, but it may not flower as well as it would outdoors.
Related Plants
- Barleria Cristata
- Barleria Lupulina
- Barleria Prionitis
References
- “Barleria Ovata”. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved 2021-11-01.
- “Barleria Ovata”. Floridata. Retrieved 2021-11-01.
- “Barleria Ovata”. Plants of the World Online. Retrieved 2021-11-01.
