Lasianthus Attenuatus
Contents
Description
Lasianthus Attenuatus, also known as the Narrow-leaved Lasianthus, is a flowering plant species in the family Rubiaceae that is native to Southeast Asia. It is a perennial plant that typically grows up to 1 meter in height and has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 10 cm long. The plant produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that grow in clusters and bloom throughout the year.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Lasianthus |
Appearance
The Lasianthus Attenuatus plant has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 10 cm long and 1 cm wide. The leaves are dark green and glossy with a prominent midrib. The plant produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that grow in clusters and bloom throughout the year. The flowers are tubular in shape and have five petals that are fused at the base. The fruit of the plant is a small, round, and fleshy berry that is green when unripe and turns purple-black when ripe.
Care Guide
The Lasianthus Attenuatus plant requires moderate care and maintenance to thrive. Here are some care tips:
Water
The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Feed the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilization during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Soil
The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix that is specifically formulated for acid-loving plants.
Sunlight
The Lasianthus Attenuatus plant prefers partial shade to full shade and should be protected from direct sunlight. Place the plant in a location that receives indirect sunlight or filtered light.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11 and can be grown as a houseplant in cooler areas.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lasianthus Attenuatus plant is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
Pests
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Mealybugs
- Scale insects
Diseases
- Root rot
- Fungal leaf spot
- Bacterial leaf blight
Habitat
The Lasianthus Attenuatus plant is native to Southeast Asia and can be found growing in the understory of lowland rainforests. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Lasianthus Attenuatus plant toxic to pets?
A: There is no known toxicity of the plant to cats, dogs, or other household pets.
Q: Can the Lasianthus Attenuatus plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown as a houseplant in cooler areas. It prefers partial shade to full shade and should be protected from direct sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Lasianthus Attenuatus plant?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilization during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for the Lasianthus Attenuatus plant?
A: The plant prefers temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and should be protected from extreme heat or cold.
Related Plants
- Lasianthus Wallichii
- Lasianthus Sikkimensis
- Lasianthus Oblongifolius
- Lasianthus Blumei
References
- “Lasianthus Attenuatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b559.
- “Lasianthus Attenuatus.” Plantz Africa, www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/lasianthatt.htm.
- “Lasianthus Attenuatus.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, apps.kew.org/wcsp/namedetail.do?name_id=111281.
