Plagiorhegma

Description

Plagiorhegma is a genus of flowering plants in the family Melastomataceae. It is native to South America, specifically Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. There are only three species in this genus, and they are all shrubs. The genus name Plagiorhegma is derived from the Greek words plagios, meaning oblique, and rhegma, meaning rupture, which refers to the obliquely ruptured calyx and corolla.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Plagiorhegma plants have an upright growth habit and can reach a height of up to 2 meters. They have green leaves that are rough to the touch and can be up to 15 centimeters in length. The flowers are pink to purple in color and have five petals. They bloom in the spring and summer months. The fruit is a capsule that contains numerous small seeds.

Care Guide

Plagiorhegma plants prefer moist soil that is well-drained. They can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. They require full sun to partial shade and can be grown in hardiness zones 8 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Plagiorhegma plants are susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. They can also be affected by leaf spot disease, which causes brown spots on the leaves. To prevent pests and diseases, it is important to keep the plants clean and free of debris.

Habitat

Plagiorhegma plants are found in the understory of tropical forests in South America. They grow in moist, shady areas and are often found near streams or other water sources.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Plagiorhegma plants be grown indoors?

A: While Plagiorhegma plants can be grown indoors, they do require a lot of sunlight, so it is important to place them near a window that receives plenty of light.

Q: How often should Plagiorhegma plants be watered?

A: Plagiorhegma plants prefer moist soil, so they should be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. However, it is important not to overwater them, as this can lead to root rot.

Q: Do Plagiorhegma plants attract pollinators?

A: Yes, Plagiorhegma plants attract bees and butterflies, which help to pollinate the flowers.

Q: How long do Plagiorhegma plants live?

A: Plagiorhegma plants can live for several years with proper care.

Related Plants

• Blakea
• Miconia
• Tibouchina

References

• “Plagiorhegma” in The Plant List. Version 1.1. (2013). Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Melastomataceae/Plagiorhegma/
• Stevens, P. F. (2001 onwards). Angiosperm Phylogeny Website. Version 14, July 2017. Retrieved from http://www.mobot.org/MOBOT/research/APweb/
• Wagner, W. L., Herbst, D. R., & Sohmer, S. H. (1999). Manual of the Flowering Plants of Hawaii. Revised Edition. University of Hawaii Press.