Contents
Description
Johnstonella is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Melastomataceae. It is native to Central and South America and is known for its attractive, showy blooms. The plant produces small, delicate flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white, which are arranged in clusters. Johnstonella is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can be grown indoors or outdoors, making it a popular choice among gardeners.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Melastomataceae |
| Genus | Johnstonella |
Appearance
Johnstonella is a small, bushy plant that typically reaches a height of 1-2 feet. Its leaves are glossy and dark green, and its flowers are small and delicate. The flowers are arranged in clusters, and they come in shades of pink, purple, or white. The plant blooms from spring to fall, and its flowers are a favorite of bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Johnstonella is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can be grown indoors or outdoors. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Johnstonella prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. However, be careful not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Johnstonella should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Soil: Johnstonella prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It should be planted in a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating in the soil.
- Sunlight: Johnstonella prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can be grown indoors near a window or outdoors in a partially shaded area.
- Hardiness Zones: Johnstonella is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Johnstonella is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
Johnstonella is native to Central and South America and can be found growing in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Johnstonella be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Johnstonella can be grown indoors near a window that receives bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should Johnstonella be fertilized?
A: Johnstonella should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: What are some common pests that can affect Johnstonella?
A: Johnstonella can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs.
Q: What hardiness zones is Johnstonella suitable for?
A: Johnstonella is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Related Plants
- Miconia
- Tibouchina
- Leandra
References
- “Johnstonella.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287454. Accessed 12 May 2021.
- “Johnstonella.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/121505/. Accessed 12 May 2021.
- “Johnstonella.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Melastomataceae/Johnstonella/. Accessed 12 May 2021.
