Contents
Description
Dichromanthus Aurantiacus is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the family Gesneriaceae. It is commonly known as the Orange African Violet due to its striking orange flowers that bloom abundantly. This plant is native to the tropical rainforests of East Africa and is often grown as a houseplant due to its attractive appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus | Dichromanthus |
Appearance
The Dichromanthus Aurantiacus plant has glossy green leaves that are oval in shape and grow in a rosette pattern. The leaves are approximately 2-3 inches long and have a slightly serrated edge. The plant grows up to 12 inches in height and produces beautiful flowers that are bright orange in color. These flowers bloom in clusters and have a tubular shape with five petals. The flowers are approximately 1 inch in diameter and have a velvety texture.
Care Guide
Water: The Dichromanthus Aurantiacus plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to let the soil dry out between waterings.
Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can also tolerate some shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 10-11 and should be grown indoors in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Dichromanthus Aurantiacus plant is susceptible to pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot, which can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and providing good air circulation.
Habitat
The Dichromanthus Aurantiacus plant is native to the tropical rainforests of East Africa, where it grows in shaded areas under the canopy of trees. It prefers warm, humid conditions and thrives in temperatures between 70-80°F.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Dichromanthus Aurantiacus plant be grown outdoors?
A: The plant is hardy in zones 10-11 and can be grown outdoors in warm, humid climates.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Dichromanthus Aurantiacus plant?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best soil for growing Dichromanthus Aurantiacus?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: How often should I water my Dichromanthus Aurantiacus plant?
A: The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to let the soil dry out between waterings.
Related Plants
- Dichromanthus Crenulatus
- Dichromanthus Micholitzii
- Dichromanthus Wettsteinii
References
- “Dichromanthus Aurantiacus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org
- “Dichromanthus Aurantiacus.” Plant Care Today. www.plantcaretoday.com
- “Dichromanthus Aurantiacus (Orange African Violet).” Gardening Know How. www.gardeningknowhow.com
