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Description
Gustavia Hexapetala, commonly known as the Amazon Lily or the Tiger Flower, is a flowering plant species native to the Amazon Rainforest. It belongs to the family Lecythidaceae, which is known for having large and showy flowers. Gustavia Hexapetala is no exception and is highly valued for its beauty, making it a popular ornamental plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Lecythidaceae |
| Genus | Gustavia |
Appearance
The Amazon Lily has large flowers that can grow up to 8 inches in diameter. The petals are white, while the center of the flower is yellow with red spots, resembling a tiger. The plant grows up to 30 feet tall and has a straight trunk with a diameter of up to 12 inches. The leaves of Gustavia Hexapetala are glossy, leathery, and dark green in color.
Care Guide
Gustavia Hexapetala is a tropical plant and requires warm temperatures and high humidity to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil rich in organic matter, such as peat moss or compost.
- Sunlight: Gustavia Hexapetala prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can damage the leaves and flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is not frost-tolerant and can only survive in hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gustavia Hexapetala is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These tiny insects suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and distort.
- Spider mites: These pests are common in dry and warm environments and can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves.
- Fungal diseases: Gustavia Hexapetala is susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spots and root rot.
Habitat
Gustavia Hexapetala is native to the Amazon Rainforest, where it grows in wet and humid environments. It is found in Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and other countries in South America. The plant thrives in the shade of taller trees and is often found growing alongside other tropical plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Gustavia Hexapetala be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with enough light and humidity.
Q: How often should I fertilize Gustavia Hexapetala?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How tall can Gustavia Hexapetala grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 30 feet tall.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Gustavia Hexapetala?
A: This plant is not frost-tolerant and can only survive in hardiness zones 10-12.
Related Plants
- Gustavia Superba
- Gustavia Augusteana
- Gustavia Goudotiana
References
- “Gustavia Hexapetala.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c889.
- “Gustavia Hexapetala.” Plantz Africa, www.plantzafrica.com/plantefg/gustavhexapet.htm.
- “Gustavia Hexapetala.” Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, www.kew.org/science/collections/botanical-collections/tropical-botany/gustavia-hexapetala.
