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Description
Breynia Oblongifolia, commonly known as the Coffee Bush, is a plant native to Southeast Asia, including Indonesia and the Philippines. This evergreen shrub belongs to the Phyllanthaceae family and can grow up to 3 meters tall. The leaves of Breynia Oblongifolia are oblong in shape, measuring approximately 10 cm by 4 cm. The leaves are glossy and dark green in color, with pink and white variegation. The plant produces small, insignificant flowers that are greenish-yellow in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Phyllanthaceae |
| Genus | Breynia |
Appearance
Breynia Oblongifolia is a beautiful plant with glossy, variegated leaves. The leaves are oblong in shape, with an average length of 10 cm and a width of 4 cm. The leaves have a dark green base color and are speckled with pink and white spots. The plant produces small flowers that are greenish-yellow in color, but they are not particularly showy. The Coffee Bush can grow up to 3 meters tall, but it can also be pruned to maintain a smaller size.
Care Guide
Breynia Oblongifolia is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your Coffee Bush healthy and happy:- Water: Water your plant regularly, but do not overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.- Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).- Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Breynia Oblongifolia prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing your plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Breynia Oblongifolia is hardy in USDA Zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Breynia Oblongifolia is vulnerable to certain pests and diseases. Here are some common issues to watch out for:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. Treat with an insecticidal soap or oil spray.- Mealybugs: These white, cottony pests can also damage the leaves and stems. Remove them by hand or treat with an insecticidal soap or oil spray.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on the leaves. Remove affected leaves and treat with a fungicide.- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Ensure that the soil has good drainage and do not water excessively.
Habitat
Breynia Oblongifolia is native to Southeast Asia, including Indonesia and the Philippines. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, shrublands, and disturbed areas. In cultivation, the plant is often grown as a houseplant or in a greenhouse.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Breynia Oblongifolia be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, Breynia Oblongifolia can be grown outdoors in USDA Zones 10-11.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Coffee Bush?
A: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: Can Breynia Oblongifolia tolerate direct sunlight?
A: No, Breynia Oblongifolia prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing your plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
Q: What should I do if my plant has root rot?
A: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Ensure that the soil has good drainage and do not water excessively.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:- Breynia disticha- Breynia nivosa- Breynia retusa- Breynia vitis-idaea
References
– “Breynia Oblongifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287204.- “Breynia Oblongifolia.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/coffee-bush/breynia-oblongifolia.htm.- “Breynia Oblongifolia.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/breynia-oblongifolia.html.
