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Description
Petrocosmea Kerrii, also known as the “Goldfish Plant” or “Jelly Bean Plant,” is a popular houseplant that belongs to the Gesneriaceae family. This plant is native to the Yunnan province of China and is valued for its unique foliage and vibrant flowers.The leaves of Petrocosmea Kerrii are oval-shaped, fleshy, and slightly succulent, with a glossy surface that gives them a shiny appearance. The leaves have a dark green color with prominent veins running throughout.The flowers of Petrocosmea Kerrii are small, trumpet-shaped, and bloom in shades of orange, red, yellow, and pink. The blooms are arranged in clusters that resemble goldfish or jelly beans, hence the plant’s common names.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus | Petrocosmea |
| Species | Kerrii |
Appearance
Petrocosmea Kerrii is a small, compact plant that typically reaches a height of 6-8 inches and a width of 12-18 inches. The plant has a rosette growth habit, with the leaves arranged in a circular pattern around the base of the plant.The leaves of Petrocosmea Kerrii are fleshy and slightly succulent, with a glossy surface that reflects light. The leaves have a dark green color with prominent veins running throughout, giving them a textured appearance.The flowers of Petrocosmea Kerrii are small and trumpet-shaped, with a diameter of approximately 1 inch. The blooms are arranged in clusters that resemble goldfish or jelly beans and come in shades of orange, red, yellow, and pink.
Care Guide
Petrocosmea Kerrii is a relatively easy plant to care for, making it a popular choice among houseplant enthusiasts. Here are some care tips to keep your plant healthy and thriving:Water: Petrocosmea Kerrii prefers to be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Feed Petrocosmea Kerrii with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.Soil: Petrocosmea Kerrii prefers a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well. Avoid using heavy, clay soils that can retain too much water.Sunlight: Petrocosmea Kerrii prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Petrocosmea Kerrii is not cold hardy and should be kept indoors in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Petrocosmea Kerrii is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be affected by common houseplant issues. Here are some of the most common problems to watch out for:Pests: The most common pests that affect Petrocosmea Kerrii are mealybugs and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Diseases: The most common disease that affects Petrocosmea Kerrii is root rot, which is caused by overwatering. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant is not sitting in standing water and that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Petrocosmea Kerrii is native to the Yunnan province of China, where it grows in rocky areas and crevices. The plant prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate moderate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Does Petrocosmea Kerrii need to be pruned?
A: Yes, petrocosmea Kerrii can benefit from occasional pruning to keep it looking tidy and prevent it from becoming too leggy.Q: Can Petrocosmea Kerrii be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, petrocosmea Kerrii can be propagated from stem cuttings. Simply take a cutting from the plant and place it in moist soil until it roots.Q: Can Petrocosmea Kerrii be grown outdoors?
A: Petrocosmea Kerrii is not cold hardy and should be kept indoors in cooler climates.Q: How often should I fertilize Petrocosmea Kerrii?
A: Feed Petrocosmea Kerrii with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Petrocosmea Kerrii:
- Petrocosmea Begoniifolia
- Petrocosmea Sericea
- Petrocosmea Cryptica
- Petrocosmea Nivea
References
- “Petrocosmea Kerrii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c505.
- “Petrocosmea.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 18 Aug. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petrocosmea.
- “Jelly Bean Plant (Petrocosmea Kerrii) Care and Growing Guide.” Plant Care Today, 17 Sept. 2021, plantcaretoday.com/jelly-bean-plant-petrocosmea-kerrii-care-guide.
