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Description
Parsonsia Capsularis is a woody vine belonging to the family Apocynaceae. It is commonly known as the milky mangrove vine or the potato vine. This species is native to the coastal regions of Australia, New Guinea, and the Pacific islands. The plant has a unique growing habit, with its stems twining and climbing up to a height of 10 meters or more.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Parsonsia |
Appearance
The leaves of Parsonsia Capsularis are glossy, dark green, and elliptical in shape, measuring up to 15 centimeters in length. The plant produces fragrant white flowers that are star-shaped and about 1.5 centimeters in diameter. The flowers bloom in clusters from late winter to early spring. The fruit of this plant is a capsule that contains numerous seeds and is about 10 centimeters long.
Care Guide
Parsonsia Capsularis grows best in full sun or partial shade and prefers a moist, well-draining soil. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil evenly moist. Fertilizer should be applied in spring and summer to promote healthy growth. This vine is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Parsonsia Capsularis is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Root rot and leaf spot may occur in poorly-drained soil or in humid conditions.
Habitat
Parsonsia Capsularis grows naturally in the coastal regions of Australia, New Guinea, and the Pacific islands. It is commonly found in mangrove forests and salt marshes, but can also be grown in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Parsonsia Capsularis poisonous?
A: Yes, this plant is toxic to animals and humans if ingested.
Q: Can Parsonsia Capsularis be grown indoors?
A: While this plant prefers to grow outdoors, it can be grown in a large container indoors if given adequate light and space.
Q: How often should Parsonsia Capsularis be pruned?
A: This plant should be pruned in late winter or early spring to control its size and shape.
Q: Does Parsonsia Capsularis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the fragrant flowers of this plant attract bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Parsonsia Alboflavescens
- Parsonsia Brownii
- Parsonsia Lanceolata
- Parsonsia Scabra
References
- “Parsonsia Capsularis.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. Accessed 28 April 2021. https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/gnp2/parsonsia-capsularis.html.
- “Parsonsia Capsularis.” PlantNet. Accessed 28 April 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Parsonsia~capsularis.
- “Parsonsia Capsularis.” The University of Queensland. Accessed 28 April 2021. https://agroforestry.net.au/main.asp?_=Parsonsia%20capsularis.
