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Description
Pemphis Acidula, also known as the sea myrtle or ironwood, is a small, salt-tolerant shrub that belongs to the Lythraceae family. This shrub is native to coastal regions of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, including Southeast Asia, Australia, and the islands of the Pacific. Pemphis Acidula can grow up to 4 meters tall and has a dense, bushy appearance with dark green leaves and small, pale pink flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Lythraceae |
| Genus | Pemphis |
Appearance
Pemphis Acidula has a dense, bushy appearance with dark green, glossy leaves that are about 2-3 cm long. The shrub produces small, pale pink flowers that bloom in clusters. The bark of Pemphis Acidula is smooth and grey, and the branches are slender and wiry. This shrub is an evergreen plant, which means it retains its foliage throughout the year.
Care Guide
Pemphis Acidula is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for growing and maintaining this shrub:
- Water: Pemphis Acidula is drought-tolerant and can survive on little water. However, it is important to water it regularly during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.
- Fertilization: Pemphis Acidula does not require frequent fertilization. You can apply a slow-release fertilizer once or twice a year.
- Soil: This shrub prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, clay, or loamy soil.
- Sunlight: Pemphis Acidula thrives in full sun but can also grow in partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This shrub can grow in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pemphis Acidula is a relatively pest-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and scale insects, especially if grown indoors. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with a solution of water and soap or with a commercial insecticide. The shrub is also prone to root rot if grown in poorly-drained soil. To avoid root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and do not overwater the plant.
Habitat
Pemphis Acidula is a coastal plant that thrives in sandy soils and salt spray. It is commonly found in mangrove swamps, sand dunes, and rocky shores. This shrub is well-adapted to the harsh conditions of coastal regions and can withstand strong winds and salt spray.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pemphis Acidula be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Pemphis Acidula can be grown indoors but it requires bright, direct sunlight and well-drained soil.
Q: Is Pemphis Acidula a good plant for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, Pemphis Acidula is an excellent plant for coastal gardens as it is salt-tolerant and can withstand strong winds.
Q: How often should I water my Pemphis Acidula?
A: Pemphis Acidula is drought-tolerant but it requires regular watering during the growing season to encourage healthy growth. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: How tall can Pemphis Acidula grow?
A: Pemphis Acidula can grow up to 4 meters tall but it can be pruned to maintain a smaller size.
Related Plants
- Pemphis Panicalulata
- Pemphis Neglecta
- Pemphis Timorensis
References
- “Pemphis Acidula (Sea Myrtle)”. Floridata. Accessed 15 September 2021. https://floridata.com/Plants/Lythraceae/Pemphis%20acidula/1101.
- “Pemphis Acidula”. World Wide Wattle. Accessed 15 September 2021. https://apps.lucidcentral.org/wattle/text/entities/pemphis_acidula.htm.
- “Pemphis Acidula”. Plantz Africa. Accessed 15 September 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/pemphis-acidula.
