Contents
Description
Maesa Indica is a small evergreen shrub that belongs to the primrose family. It is native to Southeast Asia, India, and China, and is widely grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. This plant has a rounded shape and can grow up to 3 meters in height. It has glossy, dark green leaves that are oval in shape and measure up to 7 centimeters in length. The flowers of Maesa Indica are white or cream-colored, and appear in clusters during the spring and summer months. The plant produces small, round, black berries that are edible but not commonly consumed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Primulaceae |
| Genus | Maesa |
Appearance
Maesa Indica is a compact shrub that grows up to 3 meters in height. Its leaves are glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped, measuring up to 7 centimeters in length. The plant produces small, white or cream-colored flowers that bloom in clusters during the spring and summer months. The flowers give way to small, round, black berries that are edible but not commonly consumed. The plant has a rounded shape and can be pruned to maintain its size and shape.
Care Guide
Maesa Indica is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water your Maesa Indica regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Maesa Indica prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant thrives in partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Maesa Indica is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Maesa Indica is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. To prevent infestations, regularly inspect your plant and remove any affected leaves or branches. In terms of diseases, root rot can be an issue if the soil is too wet or poorly draining. Ensure that you have well-draining soil and do not overwater your plant to prevent root rot.
Habitat
Maesa Indica is native to Southeast Asia, India, and China. It is commonly found in forests, woodlands, and shrublands. The plant prefers warm and humid climates and can grow in a range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Maesa Indica toxic to pets?
A: While there is no evidence to suggest that Maesa Indica is toxic to pets, it is best to keep this plant out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
Q: Can Maesa Indica be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Maesa Indica can be grown indoors in a bright location with indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should I prune my Maesa Indica?
A: Prune your Maesa Indica once a year in the spring to maintain its size and shape.
Q: Can Maesa Indica be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Maesa Indica can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
- Maesa Lanceolata
- Maesa Macrophylla
- Maesa Monticola
- Maesa Perlarius
References
- “Maesa Indica – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=262236. Accessed 17 Sept. 2021.
- “Maesa Indica.” Plant Care Today, 29 May 2020, plantcaretoday.com/maesa-indica-plant-growing-guide-care-tips. Accessed 17 Sept. 2021.
- “Maesa Indica.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=123133. Accessed 17 Sept. 2021.
