Contents
Description
Loganiaceae is a plant family that includes about 400 species of mainly trees, shrubs, and climbers. They are found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The family is named after Jean- Baptiste-Antoine Monnet de Lamarck, a French botanist who first described the family in 1783. The Loganiaceae family is characterized by its opposite leaves, tubular flowers, and fruit that is usually a capsule.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Loganiaceae |
| Genus | Buddleja, Gelsemium, Strychnos, Spigelia |
Appearance
Loganiaceae plants have opposite, simple leaves with entire margins. The leaves are usually smooth but may be hairy or glandular in some species. The flowers are tubular, usually with five petals, and are often brightly colored. The fruit is usually a capsule that splits open to release the seeds. The size and shape of the plant vary depending on the species, but most Loganiaceae plants are shrubs or small trees.
Care Guide
Water
Loganiaceae plants prefer moist but well-drained soil. Water them deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods. Do not let the soil dry out completely.
Fertilization
Fertilize Loganiaceae plants in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the label for the correct amount to use.
Soil
Loganiaceae plants prefer well-drained, fertile soil. They can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clay, as long as the soil is not waterlogged.
Sunlight
Loganiaceae plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade, but they will not flower as well in low light conditions.
Hardiness Zones
Loganiaceae plants are typically hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11. Some species may be hardy in zone 8 with protection.
Common Pests & Diseases
Loganiaceae plants are susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including spider mites, whiteflies, mealybugs, and scale insects. They may also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot.
Habitat
Loganiaceae plants are found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. They are often found in moist or wet habitats such as rainforests, swamps, and riverbanks. Some species can tolerate drier conditions and are found in savannas and scrublands.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the significance of the name Loganiaceae?
A: The family is named after Jean- Baptiste-Antoine Monnet de Lamarck, a French botanist who first described the family in 1783.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that Loganiaceae plants are susceptible to?
A: Loganiaceae plants are susceptible to spider mites, whiteflies, mealybugs, scale insects, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
Q: What kind of soil do Loganiaceae plants prefer?
A: Loganiaceae plants prefer well-drained, fertile soil. They can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clay, as long as the soil is not waterlogged.
Q: What kind of habitat do Loganiaceae plants grow in?
A: Loganiaceae plants are found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. They are often found in moist or wet habitats such as rainforests, swamps, and riverbanks.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Loganiaceae family:
- Buddleja davidii
- Gelsemium sempervirens
- Strychnos nux-vomica
- Spigelia marilandica
References
- “Loganiaceae.” Encyclopedia Britannica. Accessed 20 May 2021. https://www.britannica.com/plant/Loganiaceae.
- “Buddleja.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d110.
- “Gelsemium sempervirens.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 20 May 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FP/FP16200.pdf.
- “Strychnos nux-vomica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b646.
- “Spigelia marilandica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c680.
