Contents
Description
Cicendia is a genus of perennial plants that belong to the family Rubiaceae. The genus comprises of around 12 species of flowering plants that are native to South America, particularly Brazil, and are commonly known as “Brazilian star flower” or “pennywort.” These plants are notable for their unique star-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of pink, white, and red. Cicendia is an ideal plant for gardeners who are looking for a low-maintenance yet visually stunning addition to their landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota ||——–|———–|| Kingdom | Plantae|| Phylum | Magnoliophyta || Class | Magnoliopsida || Order | Gentianales || Family | Rubiaceae || Genus | Cicendia |
Appearance
Cicendia plants grow up to 30cm tall and spread up to 40cm wide. They have a creeping habit and produce small oval-shaped leaves that are glossy and dark green. The star-shaped flowers bloom from early summer to early fall and can be up to 2.5cm in diameter. They have five petals that are arranged in a star shape, with a central yellow or white eye. The flowers come in shades of pink, white, and red, and are often delicately fragranced.
Care Guide
Cicendia plants are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. Here are some tips for keeping your Cicendia healthy and thriving:- Water: Cicendia plants prefer moist soil, so keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water your plant regularly and avoid letting the soil dry out completely.- Fertilization: Feed your Cicendia with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: Cicendia plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0-7.0 is ideal.- Sunlight: Cicendia plants prefer partial shade to full sun, but they can also tolerate full shade. Avoid exposing your plant to direct sunlight for extended periods.- Hardiness Zones: Cicendia plants are hardy in USDA Zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cicendia plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is overly moist. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering your plant. If you notice any signs of disease or infestation, remove the affected parts of the plant and treat with a suitable pesticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Cicendia plants are native to South America, particularly Brazil, and are found growing in moist, shady areas such as forest understories, stream banks, and swamps. They prefer well-draining, nutrient-rich soil and can grow in a range of habitats, from wetlands to upland forests.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Cicendia plant?
A: Water your Cicendia plant regularly and keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Cicendia plants?
A: Cicendia plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0-7.0 is ideal.
Q: Can Cicendia plants grow in full shade?
A: Yes, Cicendia plants can grow in full shade, but they prefer partial shade to full sun.
Q: How tall do Cicendia plants grow?
A: Cicendia plants can grow up to 30cm tall and spread up to 40cm wide.
Related Plants
– Galium- Asperula- Hedyotis- Houstonia- Oldenlandia
References
– “Cicendia.” PlantZAfrica.com. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/cicendiabauer.htm- “Cicendia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=285636&isprofile=1&basic=Cicendia- “Cicendia.” The Plant List. http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Rubiaceae/Cicendia/
