Hillia

Description

Hillia (Hillia parasitica) is a tropical flowering plant native to Central and South America. It belongs to the family of Rubiaceae and is commonly known as “Snakehead.” The plant has an interesting growth habit, with aerial roots that help it grow on other trees. Its leaves are dark green and glossy, and its flowers are small and white.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Hillia is a small evergreen tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall in its natural habitat. In cultivation, it can be maintained as a shrub or indoor plant. The plant has a slender trunk and a bushy crown, with branches that spread horizontally. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped, measuring 3 to 6 inches long and 2 inches wide. The flowers are small and white, measuring about 1 cm in diameter. They bloom in clusters at the end of branches and emit a sweet fragrance.

Care Guide

Water

Hillia prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.

Fertilization

Fertilize Hillia once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer. Reduce fertilization in the fall and winter.

Soil

Hillia thrives in a slightly acidic soil with a pH range between 5.5 and 6.5. Use a well-draining potting mix that contains peat moss or perlite.

Sunlight

Hillia prefers bright but indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.

Hardiness Zones

Hillia is hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Hillia is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by leaf spot and root rot, which are caused by overwatering or poor drainage.

Habitat

Hillia is native to Central and South America, where it grows in tropical rainforests. It is an epiphytic plant, which means it grows on other trees for support. Its aerial roots help it absorb moisture and nutrients from the air.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Hillia be grown indoors?

A: Yes, Hillia can be grown indoors as a houseplant.

Q: How often should I water Hillia?

A: Water Hillia when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Q: What is the ideal pH range for Hillia?

A: Hillia prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range between 5.5 and 6.5.

Q: What pests and diseases are common in Hillia?

A: Mealybugs, spider mites, scale insects, leaf spot, and root rot are common pests and diseases in Hillia.

Related Plants

• Psychotria nervosa
• Coffea arabica
• Calathea
• Maranta

References

• Flora of Panama. (n.d.). Hillia parasitica. Retrieved from http://biogeodb.stri.si.edu/herbarium/species/11726/
• Hillia. (n.d.). In Flora of North America. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=116727
• Hillia parasitica. (n.d.). In Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d918