Pemphis

Description

Pemphis is a genus of evergreen shrubs or trees that belong to the Verbenaceae family. This plant is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, including Australia, Fiji, Hawaii, and other Pacific islands. Pemphis grows in coastal areas and is well adapted to salt spray, making it a popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Pemphis has small, oval-shaped leaves that are dark green and glossy. The plant’s bark is smooth and gray, and its branches are thin and wiry. Pemphis produces white, tubular flowers that bloom in clusters during the spring and summer months. The plant’s fruit is a small, brownish-black drupe that contains a single seed.

Care Guide

Water: Pemphis prefers well-draining soil that is kept consistently moist. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.

Fertilization: Feed Pemphis with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.

Soil: Use a well-draining soil mixture that is slightly acidic (pH 5.5 to 6.5).

Sunlight: Pemphis requires full sun to partial shade. Protect the plant from hot afternoon sun.

Hardiness Zones: Pemphis is hardy in zones 9 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Pemphis is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies. Keep the plant well-watered and mist the leaves regularly to deter pests. Pemphis is also prone to root rot if overwatered or if the soil does not drain properly.

Habitat

Pemphis is native to coastal areas in the Indo-Pacific region, including Australia, Fiji, and Hawaii. The plant is well adapted to salt spray and can tolerate high winds and harsh growing conditions. Pemphis is commonly used as a bonsai plant due to its small size and unique appearance.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Pemphis grow indoors?

A: Pemphis can be grown indoors as long as it receives plenty of sunlight and is kept in a well-draining soil mixture.

Q: Is Pemphis drought-tolerant?

A: Pemphis prefers consistently moist soil and is not drought-tolerant.

Q: Can Pemphis be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes, Pemphis can be propagated from stem cuttings taken during the spring or summer months.

Q: What is the best time to prune Pemphis?

A: Prune Pemphis in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.

Related Plants

• Premna serratifolia
• Avicennia marina
• Passiflora foetida

References

• “Pemphis acidula.” Floridata. Accessed September 1, 2021. https://floridata.com/plant/1192.
• “Pemphis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 1, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a683.
• “Pemphis acidula.” Pacific Island Ecosystems at Risk (PIER). Accessed September 1, 2021. https://www.hear.org/pier/species/pemphis_acidula.htm.