Crocodylium

Description

Crocodylium is a unique plant that resembles a crocodile with its elongated leaves that have jagged edges and a green color. This plant is native to the tropical regions of South America and is commonly found in wetlands, swamps, and marshes. The plant belongs to the Araceae family and is popularly grown as an ornamental plant due to its striking appearance. Crocodylium is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 2 meters in height and 1 meter in width.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Crocodylium has elongated leaves that resemble the skin of a crocodile with jagged edges. The leaves are green in color and can grow up to 60 cm long and 20 cm wide. The plant produces small green flowers that are arranged in a spadix (a type of inflorescence) that is surrounded by a spathe (a large bract). The spathe is usually white or cream in color with greenish-yellow stripes. The flowers have a strong odor that attracts pollinators such as flies and beetles.

Care Guide

Crocodylium requires moist soil and prefers to grow in wetlands or marshy areas. It can grow in full sun or partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season. Crocodylium prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.

Common Pests & Diseases

Crocodylium is susceptible to pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to root rot if the soil is too wet or poorly drained. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant.

Habitat

Crocodylium is native to the tropical regions of South America and is commonly found in wetlands, swamps, and marshes. The plant is adapted to grow in wet and humid conditions and can tolerate occasional flooding.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Crocodylium be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Crocodylium can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a bright location and the soil is kept moist.Q: How often should Crocodylium be fertilized?
A: Crocodylium should be fertilized every 2-3 months during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Crocodylium?
A: Crocodylium is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.Q: How tall can Crocodylium grow?
A: Crocodylium can grow up to 2 meters in height and 1 meter in width.

Related Plants

• Arum italicum
• Colocasia esculenta
• Alocasia macrorrhizos
• Zantedeschia aethiopica

References

• “Crocodylium.” PlantFiles. Dave’s Garden, n.d. Web. 10 Dec. 2021.
• “Crocodylium.” World of Flowering Plants. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Dec. 2021.
• “Crocodylium.” Plant Care Today. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Dec. 2021.