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Description
Klattia Stokoei, also known as the Stokoe’s Klattia, is a rare and unique plant species that belongs to the family Melastomataceae. This plant is native to the montane rainforests of Ecuador and is known for its distinct characteristics, including its white flowers with purple anthers and its velvety, hairy leaves. The Stokoe’s Klattia is a small, compact plant that can grow up to 30 cm in height and 20 cm in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Melastomataceae |
| Genus | Klattia |
Appearance
The Stokoe’s Klattia has small, velvety, hairy leaves that are green on the top and pale green on the bottom. The leaves are elliptical in shape and can grow up to 7 cm long and 4 cm wide. The plant produces white flowers that have purple anthers and can grow up to 1 cm in diameter. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the end of the stems and can bloom all year round.
Care Guide
The Stokoe’s Klattia is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require specific conditions to thrive.
Water
The Stokoe’s Klattia prefers to be kept moist, but not waterlogged. It is important to water the plant thoroughly when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
The Stokoe’s Klattia benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer). A balanced fertilizer can be applied every two weeks to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil
The Stokoe’s Klattia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is recommended.
Sunlight
The Stokoe’s Klattia prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can cause the leaves to burn.
Hardiness Zones
The Stokoe’s Klattia is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 10-11. It prefers warm and humid conditions and cannot tolerate frost.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Stokoe’s Klattia is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to ensure proper drainage and avoid waterlogging the soil.
Habitat
The Stokoe’s Klattia is native to the montane rainforests of Ecuador, where it grows in the understory of the forest. It prefers warm and humid conditions and can be found at elevations between 1,500 and 2,500 meters above sea level.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Stokoe’s Klattia a rare plant species?
A: Yes, the Stokoe’s Klattia is a rare and unique plant species that is native to the montane rainforests of Ecuador.
Q: What kind of soil does the Stokoe’s Klattia prefer?
A: The Stokoe’s Klattia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is recommended.
Q: Does the Stokoe’s Klattia require direct sunlight?
A: The Stokoe’s Klattia prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can cause the leaves to burn.
Q: What pests and diseases are common in the Stokoe’s Klattia?
A: The Stokoe’s Klattia is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Related Plants
- Klattia angustifolia
- Klattia brachysiphon
- Klattia cordifolia
- Klattia cucullata
References
- “Klattia stokoei.” The Plant List. Accessed September 16, 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2842905
- “Klattia stokoei.” International Plant Names Index. Accessed September 16, 2021. https://www.ipni.org/n/77158019-1
- “Klattia stokoei.” Tropicos. Accessed September 16, 2021. http://www.tropicos.org/Name/50316490
