Cheiranthera

Description

Cheiranthera is a genus of flowering plants in the family Melastomataceae. The genus contains around 20 species that are native to Australia and New Zealand. The name “Cheiranthera” comes from the Greek words “cheir” meaning hand and “anthera” meaning anther, referring to the shape of the anthers.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Cheiranthera plants are small shrubs that usually grow up to 3 feet tall. They have evergreen leaves that are usually a dark green color with slightly serrated edges. The flowers are usually pink or purple and have a distinctive shape, with four petals and four anthers that curl up like fingers. The flowers usually bloom in the spring and summer.

Care Guide

Here are some tips for taking care of your Cheiranthera plant:

• Water: Cheiranthera plants prefer moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water them regularly but make sure the soil is well-draining to avoid waterlogged roots.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your Cheiranthera plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer.
• Soil: Cheiranthera plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.
• Sunlight: Cheiranthera plants prefer partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, they may prefer some protection from the afternoon sun.
• Hardiness Zones: Cheiranthera plants are hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Cheiranthera plants are relatively pest and disease-free, but they may occasionally be affected by spider mites, mealybugs, or scale insects. These can usually be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Cheiranthera plants may also be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet or poorly drained.

Habitat

Cheiranthera plants are native to Australia and New Zealand, where they grow in a variety of habitats, including forests, heathlands, and rocky outcrops. They are adapted to a range of soil types and can tolerate some drought.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Cheiranthera plants be grown indoors?

A: Cheiranthera plants prefer to be grown outdoors in a well-draining soil. While they can be grown indoors, they may not thrive as well as they would outdoors.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Cheiranthera plant?

A: Fertilize your Cheiranthera plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer.

Q: Can Cheiranthera plants tolerate full sun?

A: Cheiranthera plants can tolerate full sun but may prefer some protection from the afternoon sun in hot climates.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cheiranthera plants?

A: Cheiranthera plants are hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.

Related Plants

• Melastoma malabathricum
• Miconia
• Osbeckia
• Tibouchina

References

• “Cheiranthera.” Australian Plant Name Index. Accessed 12 Aug. 2021. https://biodiversity.org.au/nsl/services/APNI.
• “Cheiranthera.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Accessed 12 Aug. 2021. http://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora_details.aspx?ID=2293.
• “Cheiranthera.” The Plant List. Accessed 12 Aug. 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Melastomataceae/Cheiranthera/.