Contents
Description
Oxyspora Paniculata, commonly known as “Kundah” or “Kundha” in Tamil Nadu, India, is a flowering plant belonging to the family Melastomataceae. It is native to the Western Ghats of South India and Sri Lanka. The plant grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has a woody stem with branches that are covered with soft hair. The leaves are simple, opposite, ovate, and serrated. The flowers are pink or purple in color and grow in terminal panicles. The fruit is a capsule containing small, brown seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Melastomataceae |
| Genus | Oxyspora |
Appearance
Oxyspora Paniculata is a beautiful plant with pink or purple flowers that bloom in the summer. The leaves are green and simple, with a serrated edge. The stem is woody and covered with soft hair. The plant grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has a spread of up to 1 meter. The flowers grow in terminal panicles and are 2-3 cm in diameter. The fruit is a capsule containing small, brown seeds.
Care Guide
Oxyspora Paniculata is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you take care of your plant:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, but do not overwater it. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Oxyspora Paniculata prefers partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oxyspora Paniculata is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that you may encounter:
- Aphids: These small insects can be removed by washing the plant with soapy water or spraying it with neem oil.
- Spider mites: These pests can be controlled by keeping the plant well-hydrated and spraying it with neem oil.
- Fungal leaf spot: This disease can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and ensuring good air circulation.
Habitat
Oxyspora Paniculata is native to the Western Ghats of South India and Sri Lanka. It grows in forests, grasslands, and rocky areas at elevations of up to 1800 meters. The plant prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Oxyspora Paniculata toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that this plant is toxic to pets. However, it is always best to keep pets away from plants they are not familiar with.
Q: Can Oxyspora Paniculata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors if it is provided with enough light and humidity.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Oxyspora Paniculata?
A: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How often should I water my Oxyspora Paniculata?
A: Water your plant regularly, but do not overwater it. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
Related Plants
- Oxyspora Cinnamomea
- Oxyspora Curtissii
- Oxyspora Elatior
- Oxyspora Glabra
- Oxyspora Paniculata var. Paniculata
References
- “Oxyspora Paniculata.” PlantList. Accessed 20 September 2021. https://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-143111
- “Oxyspora Paniculata (Wall.) C. B. Clarke.” GBIF. Accessed 20 September 2021. https://www.gbif.org/species/3156703
- “Oxyspora Paniculata.” Biodiversity of India. Accessed 20 September 2021. http://www.biodiversityofindia.org/index.php?title=Oxyspora_paniculata
