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Description
Justicia Dregei is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Acanthaceae family. It is native to South Africa and was named after Johann Franz Drège, a German botanist who collected plant specimens in the region during the 19th century. This plant is known for its unique flowers, which have elongated petals that resemble a bird’s beak. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height and 1 meter in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Justicia |
Appearance
Justicia Dregei has long, narrow leaves that are dark green in color and can grow up to 20 centimeters in length. Its flowers are tubular and have a striking orange-red color with yellow markings. The petals of the flower are elongated and have a pointed tip, resembling a bird’s beak. The flowers can grow up to 7 centimeters in length and are arranged in clusters at the end of the stems.
Care Guide
When caring for Justicia Dregei, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilizer, soil, sunlight, and ensure that it is planted in the appropriate hardiness zone.
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant Justicia Dregei in a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full sun. Place it in an area that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Justicia Dregei is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Justicia Dregei is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation and treat it with a suitable insecticide if necessary.
Habitat
Justicia Dregei is native to South Africa and can be found growing in rocky areas, along streams, and in mountainous regions. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Justicia Dregei be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Justicia Dregei can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a location that receives adequate sunlight.Q: How often should I prune Justicia Dregei?
A: Prune Justicia Dregei in the early spring before the growing season begins to promote bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged branches.Q: Can Justicia Dregei be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Justicia Dregei can be propagated from cuttings. Take cuttings in the spring or early summer and root them in a well-draining soil mix.Q: Is Justicia Dregei toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that Justicia Dregei is toxic to pets. However, it is always best to keep all plants out of reach of pets and children.
Related Plants
- Justicia carnea
- Justicia brandegeana
- Justicia aurea
- Justicia spicigera
References
- “Justicia Dregei.” PlantZAfrica. http://pza.sanbi.org/justicia-dregei.
- “Justicia Dregei.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j420.
- “Justicia Dregei.” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/justicia/growing-justicia-plants.htm.
