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Description
Mussaenda Philippica, also known as the Philippine Mussaenda, is a tropical shrub that grows in the Philippines and other Southeast Asian countries. It belongs to the Rubiaceae family and is known for its showy flowers that come in a variety of colors such as pink, white, and red. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and has a spreading growth habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Mussaenda |
Appearance
Mussaenda Philippica has glossy, dark green leaves that are ovate to oblong in shape and can grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers are borne in large clusters at the end of branches, and each flower has five petals that are fused together to form a tube-like structure. The petals are usually white or cream-colored, but some cultivars have pink or red petals. The plant blooms from late spring to early fall and can be grown as an ornamental shrub or in containers.
Care Guide
Mussaenda Philippica requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilize the plant monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Mussaenda Philippica thrives in full sun to partial shade and can be grown in hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mussaenda Philippica is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including spider mites, whiteflies, and scale insects. To prevent these insects from infesting the plant, keep the plant’s environment clean and free of debris. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poor soil drainage.
Habitat
Mussaenda Philippica is native to the Philippines and other Southeast Asian countries. The plant prefers a tropical climate and thrives in warm temperatures and high humidity. It can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11 and can be grown as an ornamental shrub or in containers.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Mussaenda Philippica?
A: Mussaenda Philippica requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: How tall does Mussaenda Philippica grow?
A: Mussaenda Philippica can grow up to 6 feet tall and has a spreading growth habit.
Q: What kind of soil does Mussaenda Philippica prefer?
A: Mussaenda Philippica prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use on Mussaenda Philippica?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer and apply it monthly during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Mussaenda erythrophylla
- Mussaenda frondosa
- Mussaenda glabra
- Mussaenda macrophylla
References
- “Mussaenda Philippica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=291717.
- “Mussaenda.” University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topic_mussaenda.
- “Mussaenda.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/mussaendaphil.htm.
