Contents
Description
Kopsia Fruticosa is a small tropical tree that is native to Southeast Asia. It is also known as “Singapore Cherry” or “Bitter Bark”. The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and has a spread of 6 feet. It has an upright growth habit with dense, glossy foliage and small, white or pink flowers that bloom throughout the year.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Kopsia |
Appearance
Kopsia Fruticosa has glossy, dark green leaves that are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are arranged opposite each other on the stem. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that are 1 inch in diameter and have a sweet fragrance. The flowers bloom throughout the year and are followed by small, red or yellow fruits. The bark of the tree is bitter and has medicinal properties.
Care Guide
Kopsia Fruticosa is an easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:- Water: Water your plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season.- Soil: Kopsia Fruticosa prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Kopsia Fruticosa is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kopsia Fruticosa is relatively pest and disease-free. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:- Scale insects: These insects can infest the plant and cause yellowing of the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap to get rid of them.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Kopsia Fruticosa is native to Southeast Asia, but it is grown as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It prefers a warm and humid climate and can grow in a variety of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Kopsia Fruticosa poisonous?
A: The bark of the tree is bitter and has medicinal properties, but the plant is not poisonous.
Q: Can Kopsia Fruticosa be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Kopsia Fruticosa?
A: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 months during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How tall can Kopsia Fruticosa grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall.
Related Plants
– Kopsia arborea- Kopsia flavida- Kopsia lanceolata- Kopsia pallida
References
– “Kopsia Fruticosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c166.- “Kopsia Fruticosa.” Floridata, www.floridata.com/Plants/Apocynaceae/Kopsia%20fruticosa/1728.
