Contents
Description
Dorstenia Elata, also known as the “Umbrella Tree,” is a unique and beautiful plant that belongs to the Moraceae family. It is native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, including Brazil, Costa Rica, and Panama. This plant is a popular choice for indoor gardening because of its striking appearance and easy-to-care-for nature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Dorstenia |
Appearance
Dorstenia Elata is a small, slow-growing plant that can reach up to 3 feet in height. It has a unique, umbrella-shaped leaf structure that makes it an attractive addition to any indoor garden. The leaves grow in a rosette pattern, and each leaf is about 4-6 inches long and 3-4 inches wide. The leaves are bright green in color and have a velvety texture. The plant produces small, yellowish-green flowers that are not particularly showy.
Care Guide
Dorstenia Elata is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal attention. Here are some tips on how to care for your Umbrella Tree:- Water: Water the plant once a week, and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Plant Dorstenia Elata in well-draining soil, such as a mixture of potting soil and perlite or sand.- Sunlight: Place the plant in bright, indirect sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: Dorstenia Elata is not frost-tolerant and should be kept indoors in areas where the temperature drops below 50°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dorstenia Elata is a relatively pest-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent these pests from infesting your plant, keep it clean and free of debris. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Dorstenia Elata is native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, where it grows in the understory of the forest. It prefers warm, humid environments and grows best in temperatures between 60°F and 80°F.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dorstenia Elata be grown outdoors?
A: No, Dorstenia Elata is not frost-tolerant and should be kept indoors in areas where the temperature drops below 50°F.
Q: How often should I water my Umbrella Tree?
A: Water the plant once a week, and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Dorstenia Elata require a lot of sunlight?
A: Place the plant in bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: What is the best fertilizer to use for Dorstenia Elata?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
– Dorstenia Foetida- Dorstenia Gigas- Dorstenia Lasiocarpa- Dorstenia Psilurus
References
– “Dorstenia Elata: Everything You Need to Know About Growing This Unique Plant.” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/umbrella-tree/growing-umbrella-trees.htm- “Dorstenia Elata.” World of Succulents. https://worldofsucculents.com/dorstenia-elata-umbrella-tree/- “Dorstenia Elata.” Plants of the World Online. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:580859-1
