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Description
Combretum Grandidieri is a flowering plant species belonging to the Combretaceae family. It is commonly known as “Madagascar Glory” and is native to Madagascar, an island nation in the Indian Ocean. This plant is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 5 meters in height. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Combretaceae |
| Genus | Combretum |
Appearance
Combretum Grandidieri has oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color and measure around 7-10 cm in length. The plant produces clusters of small, tubular-shaped flowers that are bright red to orange in color, and measure around 2-3 cm in length. The flowers bloom in the summer season and are followed by small, brownish fruits that contain one seed each. The plant has a dense and bushy growth habit and can be pruned to maintain its shape.
Care Guide
Combretum Grandidieri is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to ensure its healthy growth:
Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid over-watering as it can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the winter season.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a soil mix that contains perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Place it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Combretum Grandidieri is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can still fall prey to some common issues. Here are some of them:
Pests: The plant may be attacked by spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
Diseases: The plant may suffer from root rot or fungal infections due to over-watering. Ensure good drainage and avoid over-watering to prevent these issues.
Habitat
Combretum Grandidieri is native to Madagascar and grows in the dry deciduous forest regions of the island. It prefers well-draining soil and thrives in hot and dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Combretum Grandidieri a fast-growing plant?
A: Yes, Combretum Grandidieri is a fast-growing plant and can reach its full height within a few years.
Q: Can Combretum Grandidieri grow in containers?
A: Yes, Combretum Grandidieri can be grown in containers, but ensure that the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: How often should I prune Combretum Grandidieri?
A: Prune the plant once a year in the early spring season to maintain its shape and encourage new growth.
Q: Can Combretum Grandidieri tolerate frost?
A: No, Combretum Grandidieri cannot tolerate frost and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Combretum Grandidieri:
- Combretum indicum
- Combretum molle
- Combretum micranthum
- Combretum paniculatum
References
- “Combretum grandidieri,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed August 24, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=274280.
- “Combretum grandidieri,” PlantZAfrica, accessed August 24, 2021, http://pza.sanbi.org/combretum-grandidieri.
