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Description
Matelea Edwardsensis, also known as Edwards Plateau milkweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to the Edwards Plateau region of central Texas, United States. The plant typically grows up to 3 feet tall and spreads up to 2 feet wide. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer, producing clusters of small, greenish-white flowers with a pleasant fragrance that attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. The plant is a host plant for the monarch butterfly, which lays eggs on its leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Matelea |
Appearance
The Matelea Edwardsensis plant has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 4 inches long and 1 inch wide. The leaves are a glossy green color, and they grow alternately on the stem. The stems are slender and woody, and they can twine around other plants for support. The flowers are small, with a diameter of about 1/4 inch, and they grow in clusters at the end of the stem. The flowers have five petals and five sepals, and they are greenish-white in color with a pleasant fragrance.
Care Guide
Matelea Edwardsensis is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.5 to 7.5 is optimal.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not bloom as well.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Matelea Edwardsensis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: Aphids can infest the plant and cause damage to the foliage. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Spider mites: Spider mites can also infest the plant and cause damage to the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Root rot: Root rot can occur if the plant is overwatered or if the soil does not drain well. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant.
Habitat
Matelea Edwardsensis is native to the Edwards Plateau region of central Texas, where it grows in rocky, well-drained soil in open areas, such as prairies, woodlands, and roadsides. The plant is adapted to hot, dry conditions and can tolerate drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Matelea Edwardsensis poisonous?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic if ingested. It contains cardiac glycosides that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart problems if eaten in large quantities.
Q: How do I propagate Matelea Edwardsensis?
A: You can propagate the plant by taking stem cuttings in the spring or fall. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light until the cutting develops roots.
Q: How often should I prune Matelea Edwardsensis?
A: You do not need to prune the plant regularly. However, you can remove any dead or damaged stems or leaves as needed to keep the plant looking tidy.
Q: Can I grow Matelea Edwardsensis in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container as long as the container has good drainage and the soil is well-draining. Use a potting mix that is rich in organic matter and fertilize the plant once a year with a slow-release fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Matelea biflora
- Matelea gonocarpos
- Matelea reticulata
- Matelea sagittifolia
References
- “Matelea edwardsensis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=MAED3.
- “Matelea edwardsensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=292864.
- “Matelea edwardsensis.” Texas Native Plants Database, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, https://txnativeplants.org/plant-profile/matelea-edwardsensis/.
