Exacum Tetragonum

Description

Exacum Tetragonum, commonly known as the Square-stemmed Exacum, is a beautiful houseplant that belongs to the Gentianaceae family. It is native to Madagascar and can grow up to 12 inches in height. This plant has unique characteristics that make it stand out among other houseplants. Its square stems, for instance, set it apart from most plants, which have round stems. It also produces a profusion of star-shaped blue flowers that bloom from spring to fall.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Exacum Tetragonum has a compact and bushy growth habit, with a maximum height of about 12 inches. Its leaves are small, glossy, and dark green in color. The most striking feature of this plant is its square stems, which are tough and rigid. The stems are dark green and covered with fine hairs. The flowers are star-shaped, with five petals and a bright blue color. They bloom in clusters from spring to fall and can last for several weeks.

Care Guide

Exacum Tetragonum is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it requires specific conditions to thrive. Here are some guidelines for taking care of this plant:Water: The Square-stemmed Exacum likes moist soil, but it does not tolerate standing water. Water the plant only when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can cause the leaves to wilt and drop.Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Reduce the frequency of fertilization during the winter months.Soil: Exacum Tetragonum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a high-quality potting mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.Sunlight: This plant needs bright, indirect light to grow properly. Place it near a window that receives filtered sunlight.Hardiness Zones: Exacum Tetragonum is a tropical plant that thrives in warm temperatures. It is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12.

Common Pests & Diseases

Exacum Tetragonum is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:Mealybugs: These insects look like small, white cotton balls and feed on the sap of the plant. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them.Aphids: These tiny insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause deformations in the leaves. Use a solution of water and dish soap to eliminate them.Brown leaf tips: This can be caused by overwatering or exposure to dry air. Reduce watering and increase humidity to prevent this problem.

Habitat

Exacum Tetragonum is native to Madagascar, where it grows in the understory of tropical forests. It prefers warm temperatures and high humidity levels. In its natural habitat, it grows in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Exacum Tetragonum be grown outdoors?
A: No, this plant is not frost-tolerant and should be grown indoors.Q: Does Exacum Tetragonum need to be pruned?
A: Yes, pruning can help promote bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy.Q: How often should I water my Exacum Tetragonum?
A: Water the plant only when the top inch of soil is dry.Q: Can Exacum Tetragonum be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated from stem cuttings.

Related Plants

Here are some other plants that are related to Exacum Tetragonum:

• Exacum affine
• Exacum bicolor
• Exacum brevifolium
• Exacum pauciflorum
• Exacum petiolare

References

• “Exacum Tetragonum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b580.
• “Exacum Tetragonum.” Plant Care Today, www.plantcaretoday.com/exacum-tetragonum/.
• “Exacum Tetragonum.” World of Flowering Plants, www.worldoffloweringplants.com/exacum-tetragonum-square-stemmed-exacum/.