Contents
Description
Fordiophyton is an exotic plant that belongs to the family of Apocynaceae. It is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall with dark green glossy leaves that are arranged opposite each other on the stem. Also, the flowers of Fordiophyton are star-shaped with a yellow color and a sweet fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Fordiophyton |
Appearance
Fordiophyton is an evergreen shrub with dark green glossy leaves that are arranged opposite each other on the stem. The leaves can grow up to 7 inches long and 3 inches wide, and they have a leathery texture. The flowers of Fordiophyton are star-shaped with a yellow color and a sweet fragrance. They can grow up to 2 inches in diameter and are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches.
Care Guide
To ensure the healthy growth of Fordiophyton, below are some of the essential care tips that you should consider:
Water: Fordiophyton requires moist soil, hence it is essential to water it regularly. However, make sure that the soil is not waterlogged as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Feed your Fordiophyton with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.5 to 7.5 is ideal for Fordiophyton.
Sunlight: Fordiophyton thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. However, make sure that it is not exposed to direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Fordiophyton can grow in hardiness zones 10 to 11, which means it can tolerate temperatures between 30°F to 40°F (-1.1°C to 4.4°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
Fordiophyton is generally a healthy plant, but it can be affected by some pests and diseases. Below are some of the common ones:
Pests: The most common pests that affect Fordiophyton are mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. You can control them by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Diseases: The most common diseases that affect Fordiophyton are root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. You can prevent them by ensuring that the soil is well-draining, avoiding overhead watering, and maintaining good air circulation.
Habitat
Fordiophyton is native to tropical regions of Africa, particularly in Cameroon, Nigeria, and Gabon. It thrives in humid environments and can be found in the understory of rainforests.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Fordiophyton a poisonous plant?
A: Yes, Fordiophyton is considered toxic to humans and animals if ingested. Hence, it is essential to keep it away from children and pets.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Fordiophyton?
A: You should fertilize your Fordiophyton every two weeks during the growing season, which is from spring to summer.
Q: Can I grow Fordiophyton indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow Fordiophyton indoors as long as it receives adequate sunlight and is placed in a well-draining potting mix.
Q: How often should I prune my Fordiophyton?
A: You should prune your Fordiophyton annually to remove dead or diseased branches and promote healthy growth.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Fordiophyton:
- Tabernaemontana
- Nerium oleander
- Allamanda cathartica
- Catharanthus roseus
References
- “Fordiophyton.” PlantZAfrica.com. Accessed 23 June 2021. www.plantzafrica.com/plantefg/fordiophyton.htm.
- “Fordiophyton.” The Plant List. Accessed 23 June 2021. www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/search?q=Fordiophyton.
- “Fordiophyton gabonense (Pichon) Pichon.” African Plants Database. Accessed 23 June 2021. www.ville-ge.ch/musinfo/bd/cjb/africa/details.php?langue=an&id=29991.
