Contents
Description
Pegolettia Retrofracta, also known as the “Flying Saucer” plant, is a rare and unique plant that belongs to the family of Gesneriaceae. It is native to the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly in Brazil and Peru. This plant is named after the famous botanist Augusto Weberbauer who discovered it in 1908.Pegolettia Retrofracta is an epiphytic plant, which means it grows on other plants or trees rather than in the soil. It has a unique appearance, with small, round leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. The leaves are dark green and shiny, with a velvety texture on the underside. The plant produces a single, large, bell-shaped flower that hangs upside down, resembling a flying saucer. The flower is pinkish-purple in color and has yellow spots and stripes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus | Pegolettia |
| Species | Retrofracta |
Appearance
Pegolettia Retrofracta has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other plants. Its leaves grow in a rosette pattern and are small, round, and dark green in color. The leaves have a velvety texture on the underside, which adds to its unique look. The plant produces a single, large, bell-shaped flower that hangs upside down, resembling a flying saucer. The flower is pinkish-purple in color and has yellow spots and stripes, making it a beautiful addition to any collection.
Care Guide
To keep your Pegolettia Retrofracta healthy and thriving, it is important to follow a few care guidelines. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:- Water: Pegolettia Retrofracta prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water it regularly, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Pegolettia Retrofracta prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.- Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Pegolettia Retrofracta is not cold-hardy and prefers temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pegolettia Retrofracta is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common issues to watch out for:- Mealybugs: Look for white, cottony masses on the leaves and stems. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Scale: Look for small, brown bumps on the leaves and stems. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to your plant. Make sure to use a well-draining soil mix and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Pegolettia Retrofracta is native to the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly in Brazil and Peru. It grows on other plants or trees rather than in the soil, making it a unique and interesting addition to any collection.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pegolettia Retrofracta difficult to care for?
A: Pegolettia Retrofracta is relatively easy to care for as long as you follow some basic guidelines. It prefers bright, indirect light, moist but well-draining soil, and regular fertilization.
Q: Can Pegolettia Retrofracta be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Pegolettia Retrofracta can be grown indoors as long as it has access to bright, indirect light.
Q: How often should I water my Pegolettia Retrofracta?
A: Water your Pegolettia Retrofracta regularly, but avoid overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Pegolettia Retrofracta have any special requirements?
A: Pegolettia Retrofracta prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. It also prefers temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Pegolettia Retrofracta that you might be interested in:- Streptocarpus: This plant is also a member of the Gesneriaceae family and has similar care requirements to Pegolettia Retrofracta.- Episcia: Another member of the Gesneriaceae family, Episcia is a trailing plant with variegated leaves and small, tubular flowers.- Saintpaulia: Commonly known as African violets, Saintpaulia is a popular houseplant with fuzzy leaves and small, delicate flowers.
References
– “Pegolettia Retrofracta.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c890.- “Pegolettia Retrofracta.” The Gesneriad Society. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.gesneriadsociety.org/gesneriad-info/gesneriads/pegolettia-retrofracta/.
