Justicia Aurea

Description

Justicia Aurea, commonly known as Yellow Justicia, is a beautiful perennial plant that belongs to the Acanthaceae family. It is native to Central and South America and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful yellow flowers. The plant can grow up to 3 feet in height and has a bushy appearance with green leaves.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The plant has green leaves that are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are oblong in shape and have a pointed tip. The flowers of the plant are yellow and grow in clusters on the top of the stems. The flowers have a tubular shape and are about 1-2 inches long. The plant blooms from spring to fall.

Care Guide

Yellow Justicia is an easy-to-care-for plant that can thrive in most conditions. Here are some care tips:

Water

The plant needs to be watered regularly during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. In winter, the plant should be watered sparingly.

Fertilization

The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Too much fertilizer can cause the plant to grow too quickly and become weak.

Soil

The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal.

Sunlight

The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.

Hardiness Zones

The plant can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

The plant is susceptible to spider mites, whiteflies, and mealybugs. It can also be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent pests and diseases, the plant should be kept in good condition and any diseased or damaged leaves should be removed promptly.

Habitat

Justicia Aurea is native to Central and South America and can be found in countries such as Brazil, Peru, and Colombia. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions and can be found in forests, savannas, and along riverbanks.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Yellow Justicia?
A: The plant should be watered regularly during the growing season.

Q: What kind of soil does Yellow Justicia prefer?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.

Q: What is the ideal pH for Yellow Justicia?
A: A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for the plant.

Q: What hardiness zones can Yellow Justicia grow in?
A: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.

Related Plants

• Justicia Carnea
• Justicia Brandegeeana
• Justicia Spicigera

References

• “Justicia Aurea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a283.
• “Justicia Aurea.” Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/55070/.
• “Justicia Aurea.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/justicia/yellow-justicia-care.htm.