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Description
Matelea Biflora, also known as Sandvine, is a perennial plant native to the southeastern United States. It belongs to the family Apocynaceae and is a twining vine that can grow up to 6 feet long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Matelea |
Appearance
Matelea Biflora has green, heart-shaped leaves that are 1-4 inches long and 1-3 inches wide. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and bloom in the summer. The fruit is a pod that is 2-3 inches long and contains seeds with a tuft of silky hair.
Care Guide
Matelea Biflora grows best in well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it may cause root rot. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Matelea Biflora is hardy in USDA zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Matelea Biflora is relatively pest and disease-free, but it may be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. To control these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering may cause root rot, so make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Matelea Biflora is native to the southeastern United States, including Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. It grows in sandy soils in open areas, such as pine forests, sandhills, and coastal dunes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Matelea Biflora a good plant for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, Matelea Biflora is relatively easy to grow and care for, making it a good choice for beginner gardeners.
Q: What is the best way to propagate Matelea Biflora?
A: Matelea Biflora can be propagated by seed or by stem cuttings taken in the spring or fall.
Q: How often should I fertilize Matelea Biflora?
A: Fertilize Matelea Biflora once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Matelea Biflora be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Matelea Biflora can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Related Plants
- Matelea gonocarpos
- Matelea reticulata
- Matelea decipiens
- Matelea cyclophylla
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Matelea Biflora. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=MABI
- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Matelea Biflora. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/matelea-biflora/
- Mississippi State University Extension. (2018). Sand Vine. Retrieved from https://extension.msstate.edu/publications/sand-vine
