Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Violaceae |
| Genus: | Decaspermum |
Appearance
Decaspermum Parviflorum, also known as the small-flowered decaspermum or voatsiperifery in Madagascar, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the Violaceae family. It is a slow-growing epiphyte that thrives on the branches of trees in the rainforest. The plant has a unique growth habit where it forms a dense mat-like structure of leaves and stems that can spread up to 50 centimeters in diameter. The leaves are small, glossy, and oval-shaped with a dark green color. The flowers are small and white, about 2-3 millimeters in diameter, and have a faint sweet scent. The fruit is a small capsule with ten chambers containing tiny seeds.
Care Guide
Decaspermum Parviflorum is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water your plant once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months. Make sure to let the soil dry out between watering to avoid root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer every month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: Use a well-draining orchid mix or a mixture of peat, perlite, and bark to provide good drainage for the roots.
- Sunlight: Decaspermum Parviflorum prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is not frost-tolerant and thrives in warm, humid environments. It is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Decaspermum Parviflorum is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the leaves and cause yellowing and discoloration. Use a neem oil spray to control the infestation.
- Mealybugs: These pests can also infest the plant and cause damage. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them.
- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Make sure to let the soil dry out between watering to avoid this issue.
Habitat
Decaspermum Parviflorum is endemic to Madagascar and can be found growing in the rainforests of the island. It thrives as an epiphyte on the branches of trees and can also grow on rocks and other substrates. The plant prefers warm, humid environments and is not frost-tolerant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Decaspermum Parviflorum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors as long as it gets enough bright, indirect sunlight and is watered properly.
Q: How often should I fertilize my plant?
A: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Decaspermum Parviflorum toxic to pets?
A: There is no information available on the toxicity of this plant to pets. It is best to keep it out of reach of pets to be safe.
Q: How fast does Decaspermum Parviflorum grow?
A: Decaspermum Parviflorum is a slow-growing plant that can take several years to reach maturity.
Related Plants
- Decaspermum fruticosum
- Decaspermum humblotii
- Decaspermum vitiense
- Decaspermum graciliflorum
References
- Decaspermum Parviflorum. (n.d.). Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved July 22, 2021, from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=275782
- Decaspermum Parviflorum. (n.d.). World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Retrieved July 22, 2021, from http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=316714
- Decaspermum Parviflorum. (n.d.). Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved July 22, 2021, from https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60469305-2
