Contents
Description
Platostoma is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Acanthaceae. The genus consists of about 30 species that are native to tropical Africa. Plants in the Platostoma genus typically have attractive flowers that bloom in shades of purple, pink, or white. The plants are commonly grown as ornamental plants in gardens or as houseplants.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Platostoma |
Appearance
The Platostoma genus includes plants that vary in size from small shrubs to large trees. The plants have lance-shaped leaves that are typically green and glossy. The flowers of Platostoma plants are trumpet-shaped and have five petals that are arranged in a distinctive pattern. The flowers are usually pink, purple, or white and are often quite showy. Platostoma plants typically bloom in the spring and summer.
Care Guide
Platostoma plants are relatively easy to care for and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor growing. Here are some tips for caring for Platostoma plants:
- Water: Platostoma plants prefer moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Platostoma plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Platostoma plants prefer bright, indirect light but can also tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Platostoma plants are hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Platostoma plants are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but they are not completely immune. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect Platostoma plants:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to wilt and die.
- Spider mites: These pests can spin webs on the leaves of the plant and cause them to turn yellow and fall off.
- Fungal diseases: Platostoma plants can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or leaf spot.
Habitat
Platostoma plants are native to tropical Africa, where they grow in a variety of habitats including forests, woodlands, and savannas. The plants prefer warm, humid conditions and do not tolerate frost or freezing temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Platostoma plants be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Platostoma plants can be grown indoors as long as they receive bright, indirect light.
Q: How often should I water my Platostoma plant?
A: Water your Platostoma plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for my Platostoma plant?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Are Platostoma plants susceptible to any diseases?
A: Platostoma plants can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or leaf spot.
Related Plants
- Justicia
- Ruellia
- Hypoestes
References
- “Platostoma.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantnop/platostoma.htm.
- “Platostoma.” The Plant List, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden, www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Acanthaceae/Platostoma/.
- “Platostoma.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, www.kew.org/wcsp/home.do.
