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Description
Nertera Nigricarpa, also known as the coral berry or pin cushion plant, is a small perennial plant native to New Zealand. The plant is a member of the family Rubiaceae and is characterized by its bright orange berries that resemble small pumpkins. The plant can grow up to 10 inches in height and has small, shiny, and oval-shaped leaves. The plant blooms in the summer and produces small white flowers that are less than ½ inch in diameter. The berries ripen in late summer and early fall and can last for several months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Nertera |
Appearance
Nertera Nigricarpa is a small, mounding plant with bright green, glossy leaves that grow in opposite pairs. The plant produces small white flowers in the summer, which are followed by bright orange berries. The berries are round and approximately the size of a pea, with a slightly flattened side. The berries grow in clusters and are attached to the plant by thin stems.
Care Guide
Nertera Nigricarpa requires well-draining soil and regular watering to thrive. The plant prefers light shade or filtered sunlight and can be grown indoors in a bright, humid location. The plant can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every two to three months during the growing season. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and should be protected from frost.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nertera Nigricarpa is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can occur if the soil is not well-draining, so it’s important to ensure the plant is not overwatered.
Habitat
Nertera Nigricarpa is native to New Zealand and can be found growing in moist, shaded areas such as forests and riverbanks. The plant has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Australia, Europe, and the United States.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Nertera Nigricarpa be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Nertera Nigricarpa can be grown indoors in a bright, humid location.
Q: What is the ideal fertilizer for Nertera Nigricarpa?
A: A balanced fertilizer can be used every two to three months during the growing season.
Q: How often should Nertera Nigricarpa be watered?
A: The plant should be watered regularly, but the soil should be allowed to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Nertera Nigricarpa?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and should be protected from frost.
Related Plants
- Nertera Depressa
- Nertera Granadensis
- Nertera Mitreola
References
- “Nertera Nigricarpa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c601
- “Nertera Nigricarpa.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/15216/Nertera-nigricarpa/Details
- “Coral Berry.” North Carolina State University. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/nertera-nigricarpa/
