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Description
Cascabela (also known as Thevetia) is a genus of flowering plants native to Central and South America. It belongs to the family Apocynaceae, which also includes popular plants like oleander and periwinkle. Cascabela is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 20 feet in height. Its leaves are dark green and glossy, and its flowers are trumpet-shaped and come in shades of yellow, pink, and white. The fruit of the Cascabela plant is a woody capsule containing numerous seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Cascabela |
Appearance
Cascabela is a beautiful plant that can add color and interest to any garden. Its leaves are evergreen, lance-shaped, and glossy, and they can grow up to 6 inches in length. The flowers of the Cascabela plant are large, trumpet-shaped, and range in color from yellow to pink and white. They bloom in clusters and can reach up to 3 inches in diameter. The fruit of the Cascabela plant is a woody capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Cascabela is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to ensure its health and beauty. Here are some tips on how to care for your Cascabela plant:- Water: Cascabela prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water your Cascabela plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot and dry weather.- Fertilization: Feed your Cascabela plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Do not fertilize during fall and winter.- Soil: Cascabela prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and compost to create a soil that is ideal for your Cascabela plant.- Sunlight: Cascabela prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant your Cascabela in a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Cascabela is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cascabela is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to a few common problems. Here are some of the pests and diseases that can affect your Cascabela plant:- Scale insects: These small insects can attach themselves to the leaves and stems of your Cascabela plant and suck out its sap. Use an insecticidal soap to control scale insects.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves of your Cascabela plant. Use a miticide to control spider mites.- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots of your Cascabela plant to rot. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Habitat
Cascabela is native to Central and South America, where it can be found growing in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cascabela poisonous?
A: Yes, Cascabela is poisonous. All parts of the plant contain a toxic substance called cerberin, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart failure if ingested.
Q: Can I grow Cascabela indoors?
A: Yes, Cascabela can be grown indoors as a houseplant. Ensure that it receives enough sunlight and that the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Cascabela plant?
A: Feed your Cascabela plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Cascabela?
A: Cascabela prefers temperatures between 60-85°F.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Cascabela:- Apocynum cannabinum (Indian hemp)- Catharanthus roseus (Madagascar periwinkle)- Nerium oleander (Oleander)- Vinca minor (Common periwinkle)
References
– “Cascabela thevetia” from Missouri Botanical Garden- “Thevetia peruviana” from University of Florida IFAS Extension- “Thevetia peruviana” from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
