Deeringia Polysperma

Description

Deeringia Polysperma is an evergreen shrub that is native to Hawaii. It is also known as “Awiwi” or “Hawaiian Bitterbush”. This plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 10 feet wide. It has green leaves that are glossy and oval-shaped. The flowers of Deeringia Polysperma are small and white, and they bloom throughout the year. The fruit of this plant is a small orange or yellow berry that is edible but bitter in taste.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Deeringia Polysperma is a beautiful plant that has a unique appearance. It has green leaves that are glossy and oval-shaped. The leaves are about 3 inches long and 2 inches wide. The flowers of Deeringia Polysperma are small and white, and they bloom throughout the year. The fruit of this plant is a small orange or yellow berry that is edible but bitter in taste.

Care Guide

Deeringia Polysperma requires proper care for healthy growth. Follow these care tips to keep your plant healthy:

• Water: Water your plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your plant every three months with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Deeringia Polysperma prefers partial sunlight to full shade.
• Hardiness Zones: This plant grows best in zones 10 and 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Deeringia Polysperma is susceptible to some common pests and diseases. Here are a few of them:

• Aphids: These small insects can damage the leaves of your plant. Use an insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
• Mealybugs: These white insects can form a cotton-like mass on your plant. Use a systemic insecticide to get rid of them.
• Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot in Deeringia Polysperma. Use a well-draining soil and don’t overwater your plant.

Habitat

Deeringia Polysperma is native to Hawaii and grows in lowland forests and coastal areas. It prefers well-draining soils and partial sunlight to full shade. This plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Deeringia Polysperma a poisonous plant?

A: No, Deeringia Polysperma is not a poisonous plant. The fruit of this plant is edible but bitter in taste.

Q: How fast does Deeringia Polysperma grow?

A: Deeringia Polysperma can grow up to 6 feet tall and 10 feet wide. It grows at a moderate pace.

Q: Can Deeringia Polysperma grow in containers?

A: Yes, Deeringia Polysperma can grow in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is watered regularly.

Q: How often should I fertilize Deeringia Polysperma?

A: Fertilize your plant every three months with a balanced fertilizer.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Deeringia Polysperma:

• Justicia Aurea
• Justicia Brandegeeana
• Justicia Spicigera
• Justicia Carnea

References

• “Deeringia Polysperma.” Floridata, www.floridata.com/plant/3586.
• “Deeringia Polysperma – Awiwi.” Hawaiian Plants and Tropical Flowers, hawaiianfloweringplants.com/shrubs/deeringia-polysperma.
• “Deeringia Polysperma.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/hawaiian-bitterbush/deeringia-polysperma-growing.htm.