Contents
Description
Bredia Sinensis, also known as the Chinese Bredia, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the family Melastomataceae. It is native to China and can be found growing in the wild in the provinces of Guangxi, Guizhou, and Yunnan. The plant is known for its beautiful foliage and showy flowers, making it a popular ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Melastomataceae |
| Genus | Bredia |
Appearance
Bredia Sinensis can grow up to 2 meters in height and 2 meters in width. It has dark green, ovate leaves that are 5-12 cm long and 3-8 cm wide. The leaves have a smooth texture and a glossy appearance. The plant produces beautiful, bright pink flowers with five petals that are 2-3 cm in diameter. The flowers bloom in late spring and early summer, and are followed by small, red berries that are 5-7 mm in diameter.
Care Guide
Bredia Sinensis is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your Chinese Bredia healthy:
- Water: The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater it.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Bredia Sinensis prefers partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bredia Sinensis is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing it to weaken and become stunted.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling on the leaves.
- Root Rot: Overwatering can cause the roots of the plant to rot, leading to wilting and yellowing of the leaves.
Habitat
Bredia Sinensis is native to China and can be found growing in the wild in the provinces of Guangxi, Guizhou, and Yunnan. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bredia Sinensis a winter-hardy plant?
A: Bredia Sinensis is hardy in USDA zones 7-10, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as 0°F (-18°C).
Q: Can Bredia Sinensis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Bredia Sinensis can be grown in a container as long as it is given enough space to grow and is watered regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize Bredia Sinensis?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer.
Q: Does Bredia Sinensis attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Bredia Sinensis is known to attract bees and butterflies with its showy flowers.
Related Plants
- Bredia Microphylla
- Bredia Oldhamii
- Bredia Hemsleyana
References
- “Bredia Sinensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 10 August 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=275798&isprofile=0&basic=bredia%20sinensis>.
- “Bredia Sinensis.” Plant Delights Nursery. Accessed 10 August 2021. <https://www.plantdelights.com/products/bredia-sinensis>.
- “Chinese Bredia.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 10 August 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/14147/bredia-sinensis/details>.
