Contents
Description
Clidemia Hirta, also known as Koster’s Curse, is a flowering plant found in tropical regions. It is native to South America, but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Hawaii and some African countries. The plant can grow up to 3 meters tall and has bright pink or purple flowers that bloom in clusters. The leaves are dark green and oval-shaped.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Melastomataceae |
| Genus | Clidemia |
Appearance
Clidemia Hirta is a large shrub or small tree that can grow up to 3 meters tall. The leaves are dark green and oval-shaped, measuring up to 20 centimeters long and 10 centimeters wide. The flowers are bright pink or purple and grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a small, round, purple-black berry that contains many seeds.
Care Guide
To care for Clidemia Hirta, it is important to provide it with plenty of water, especially during hot and dry periods. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate full sun, but will also grow in partial shade. Clidemia Hirta is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clidemia Hirta is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. To prevent these pests, regularly inspect the plant and use an insecticidal soap if necessary. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Clidemia Hirta is native to South America, but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Hawaii and some African countries. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions, usually in moist areas such as forests, riverbanks, and wetlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Clidemia Hirta poisonous?
A: No, Clidemia Hirta is not poisonous to humans, but the fruit is toxic to birds.
Q: How often should I fertilize Clidemia Hirta?
A: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 months with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Clidemia Hirta grow in full sun?
A: Yes, Clidemia Hirta can tolerate full sun, but will also grow in partial shade.
Q: What USDA zones is Clidemia Hirta hardy in?
A: Clidemia Hirta is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Clidemia capensis
- Clidemia rubra
- Clidemia sericea
References
- “Clidemia Hirta.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=265750
- “Clidemia Hirta.” Hawaiian Ecosystems at Risk Project. https://www.hear.org/species/clidemia_hirta/
- “Clidemia Hirta.” PlantNet. http://www.plantnet.org/publications/publishing-standards/24-plantnet-publications/1-english/plantnet-english/295-clidemia-hirta
