Contents
Description
Mitracarpus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Rubiaceae, native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and South America. This genus includes about 100 species of perennial herbs or small shrubs. The plants are characterized by their small, white or pink flowers with four or five petals, and their fruit is a small, fleshy drupe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Mitracarpus |
Appearance
Mitracarpus plants vary in height from a few inches to several feet. They have simple leaves that are often opposite and covered in short hairs. The flowers occur in clusters at the ends of the stems and have a tubular shape with four or five petals. The fruit is a small, rounded or oblong drupe that may be red, purple, or black.
Care Guide
Mitracarpus plants are relatively easy to care for and grow well in warm, humid environments. They prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and should be watered regularly, but not over-watered. Fertilization should be done once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Mitracarpus plants prefer full sun to partial shade and are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mitracarpus plants may be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Root rot may occur if the plants are over-watered or in poorly-draining soil. This can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Habitat
Mitracarpus plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and South America. They grow in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and grasslands. Some species are adapted to grow in sandy or rocky soils, while others prefer more fertile soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Mitracarpus plants be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Mitracarpus plants can be grown indoors in a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light.
Q: How often should Mitracarpus plants be fertilized?
A: Mitracarpus plants should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Are Mitracarpus plants drought tolerant?
A: Mitracarpus plants prefer regular watering and are not particularly drought tolerant.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Mitracarpus plants?
A: Mitracarpus plants are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
– Psilostachys- Psychotria- Randia- Sabicea- Spermacoce
References
– “Mitracarpus.” The Plant List. 2021. www.theplantlist.org– “Mitracarpus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org– “Mitracarpus.” Flora of Zimbabwe. 2021. www.zimbabweflora.co.zw
