Contents
Description
Ichnocarpus Frutescens, also known as Black Creeper or Duscle, is a flowering plant native to India and Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Apocynaceae family and is a climbing shrub that can grow up to 6 meters tall. The plant has woody stems, glossy leaves, and small white flowers that bloom in clusters. The fruit of the plant is a pod that contains seeds.The plant is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, respiratory problems, and skin diseases.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Ichnocarpus |
Appearance
Ichnocarpus Frutescens is a climbing shrub that can grow up to 6 meters tall. The plant has woody stems that are green when young and turn brown with age. The leaves of the plant are glossy, dark green, and ovate in shape. The leaves are arranged in an opposite pattern and can grow up to 10 cm long and 6 cm wide.The flowers of the plant are small and white, with a diameter of about 1 cm. The flowers bloom in clusters and have a sweet fragrance. The fruit of the plant is a pod that is oblong in shape and can grow up to 10 cm long.
Care Guide
Ichnocarpus Frutescens is a hardy plant that is easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips for caring for the plant:Water: The plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.Soil: The plant grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun.Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ichnocarpus Frutescens is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant may be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent infestations, keep the plant clean and free from debris. If infestations occur, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Ichnocarpus Frutescens is native to India and Southeast Asia. The plant grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, scrublands, and grasslands. The plant is also commonly found in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ichnocarpus Frutescens a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Ichnocarpus Frutescens is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.Q: How tall can Ichnocarpus Frutescens grow?
A: Ichnocarpus Frutescens can grow up to 6 meters tall.Q: What is the fruit of Ichnocarpus Frutescens?
A: The fruit of Ichnocarpus Frutescens is a pod that contains seeds.Q: What hardiness zones can Ichnocarpus Frutescens grow in?
A: Ichnocarpus Frutescens can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Ichnocarpus Frutescens:- Vinca rosea- Tabernaemontana divaricata- Alstonia scholaris- Calotropis gigantea
References
– “Ichnocarpus frutescens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281004 (accessed November 10, 2021).- “Ichnocarpus frutescens.” Flowers of India. http://www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Black%20Creeper.html (accessed November 10, 2021).- “Ichnocarpus frutescens.” Useful Tropical Plants. https://uses.plantnet-project.org/en/Ichnocarpus_frutescens_(PROSEA) (accessed November 10, 2021).
