Pandorea
Contents
Description
Pandorea, commonly known as the Bower Vine, is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the Bignoniaceae family. These evergreen or semi-evergreen climbers are native to Australia and the Pacific Islands, and are best known for their beautiful trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom from spring to autumn. The plant is named after Pandora, the first woman in Greek mythology who opened a box releasing all the evils into the world. The name symbolizes the beauty and danger that the plant possesses.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus | Pandorea |
Appearance
Pandorea plants are climbing vines that can grow up to 20 feet in length. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and pinnate, with 5-9 leaflets. The flowers are trumpet-shaped, measuring around 2 inches in diameter, and come in shades of pink, white, and red. The plant blooms from spring to autumn, with each flower lasting about a week. The fruit is a long, slender, cylindrical capsule that splits open to release numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Pandorea plants are relatively easy to care for, and thrive in warm, humid conditions. Here are some tips for taking care of your plant:- Water: Water the plant regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. During hot, dry weather, the plant may need to be watered more frequently.- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Plant the vine in well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. A pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal.- Sunlight: Pandorea plants need plenty of sunlight to thrive, so plant them in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Pandorea plants are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pandorea plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can sometimes be affected by the following:- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing them to wilt and die. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.- Scale insects: These insects can attach themselves to the leaves and stems, causing yellowing and wilting. Use a systemic insecticide to get rid of them.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating to form on the leaves. Use a fungicide to treat it.
Habitat
Pandorea plants are native to Australia and the Pacific Islands, where they grow in a wide range of habitats, from rainforests to dry scrublands. They are often found climbing up trees, shrubs, and fences, using their tendrils to attach themselves to the support.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pandorea plants grow in pots?
A: Yes, Pandorea plants can be grown in pots, but they will need a trellis or support to climb on.
Q: How often should I water my Pandorea plant?
A: Water the plant regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. During hot, dry weather, the plant may need to be watered more frequently.
Q: How do I propagate Pandorea plants?
A: Pandorea plants can be propagated by taking stem cuttings in the spring or summer. Plant the cuttings in moist soil, and keep them in a warm, humid place until they root.
Q: Are Pandorea plants toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that Pandorea plants are toxic to pets, but it is always best to keep pets away from plants to be safe.
Related Plants
– Campsis radicans (Trumpet Vine)- Tecoma stans (Yellow Bells)- Bignonia capreolata (Crossvine)
References
– “Pandorea.” Floridata, 2019, https://floridata.com/plant/1534.- “Pandorea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c510.- “Pandorea.” Royal Horticultural Society, 2021, https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/10382/Pandorea/Details.
