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Description
Ophiorrhiza Hayatana, commonly known as the Hayatan’s Snake-Root, is a species of flowering plant in the Rubiaceae family. It is native to the Philippines and was discovered in 1979 by Dr. Victor B. Amoroso. The plant is named after Dr. Hayat M. Kamille, a botanist who made significant contributions to the knowledge and study of Philippine flora.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Ophiorrhiza |
Appearance
Ophiorrhiza Hayatana is a small, perennial herb that grows up to 0.5 meters tall. The plant has slender stems that are green in color and are covered with fine hairs. The leaves are oblong and grow up to 8 centimeters long and 2 centimeters wide. The leaves are dark green in color and have a smooth texture. The flowers of the plant are small and white, and they grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The fruit of the plant is a small capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Ophiorrhiza Hayatana is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant:- Water: The plant prefers to be kept moist but not wet. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial to full shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ophiorrhiza Hayatana is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. To prevent these pests, keep the plant well-watered and well-fed. If infestation occurs, treat the plant with an insecticide or a pesticide.
Habitat
Ophiorrhiza Hayatana is native to the Philippines and can be found growing in the wild in the Luzon, Mindoro, and Panay islands. The plant grows in lowland forests and prefers to grow in shady areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ophiorrhiza Hayatana toxic?
A: There is no known toxicity associated with this plant.
Q: Can Ophiorrhiza Hayatana be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with adequate light and moisture.
Q: How often should I fertilize Ophiorrhiza Hayatana?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Ophiorrhiza Hayatana require pruning?
A: It is not necessary to prune this plant, but it can be done to maintain its shape and size.
Related Plants
– Ophiorrhiza brevipes- Ophiorrhiza bullata- Ophiorrhiza caespitosa- Ophiorrhiza corymbosa- Ophiorrhiza dielsiana- Ophiorrhiza densiflora
References
– Amoroso, V. B., & Kamille, H. M. (1979). Ophiorrhiza hayatana, a new species of Rubiaceae from the Philippines. Kew Bulletin, 34(3), 555-558.- Philippine Medicinal Plants. (n.d.). Ophiorrhiza hayatana. Retrieved from https://www.stuartxchange.org/OphiorrhizaHayatana.html.
