Besleria

Description

Besleria is a genus of flowering plants in the Gesneriaceae family, which comprises about 250 species of tropical plants. They are commonly known as coral drops or goldfish plants because of their striking flowers that resemble coral or goldfish. The genus was named after Basilius Besler, a German botanist who lived in the 17th century. Most species are epiphytes, which means they grow on other plants or trees, but some can also grow on the ground. Besleria is native to Central and South America, mainly in the Andes region.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Besleria plants have glossy, dark green leaves that can grow up to 6 inches long. The leaves are usually oval or lance-shaped and have slightly serrated edges. The flowers are the most striking feature of the plant, with a wide range of colors, including red, orange, yellow, pink, and white. The tubular flowers have a flared, trumpet-like shape and are about 1 inch long. The flowers bloom in clusters or singly and can last for several weeks. Some varieties of Besleria have variegated or patterned leaves, adding to their aesthetic appeal.

Care Guide

Besleria plants require a warm, humid environment to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for them:

• Water: Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
• Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Besleria prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
• Hardiness Zones: Besleria is not frost-tolerant and thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Besleria plants are vulnerable to pests and diseases common to other tropical plants. Here are some of the most common ones:

• Mealybugs: These small, white insects can infest the plant’s leaves and stems, causing damage and stunting growth.
• Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves and webs on the undersides of the leaves.
• Root rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powder-like substance to appear on the leaves, inhibiting photosynthesis and weakening the plant.

Habitat

Besleria plants are native to Central and South America, mainly in the Andes region. They thrive in warm, humid environments with well-draining soil. Most species are epiphytes, which means they grow on other plants or trees in their natural habitat. Some species can also grow on the ground or in rocky areas. Besleria plants play an important role in the ecosystem by providing nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Besleria plant?
A: Water your Besleria plant regularly, but avoid overwatering. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.

Q: Can I grow Besleria in direct sunlight?
A: No, Besleria prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.

Q: What kind of soil is best for Besleria?
A: Use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Besleria?
A: Besleria is not frost-tolerant and thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.

Related Plants

• Columnea
• Episcia
• Gloxinia
• Streptocarpus
• Primulina

References

• “Besleria.” The Gesneriad Reference Web. Retrieved from http://www.gesneriads.info/genera/besleria.htm
• “Besleria.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279308&isprofile=0&basic=besleria
• “Besleria.” The International Plant Names Index. Retrieved from https://www.ipni.org/n/3893-1