Contents
Description
Rauvolfia Verticillata, also known as the Devil Pepper or Snake Root, is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Apocynaceae family and is a perennial herb that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The plant has a woody stem and small white or pink flowers that bloom in clusters. The fruit produced by the plant is a capsule.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Rauvolfia |
Appearance
The leaves of Rauvolfia Verticillata are dark green and glossy. They are arranged in whorls of three to four around the stem. The flowers are small, white or pink, and have five petals. The fruit produced by the plant is a small capsule that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Rauvolfia Verticillata requires regular watering and well-draining soil. The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The plant is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. To prevent these pests, keep the plant well-watered and avoid over-fertilizing. The plant can also be affected by root rot if it is over-watered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Rauvolfia Verticillata is native to Southeast Asia and is found in tropical forests and open fields. The plant prefers moist soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rauvolfia Verticillata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Rauvolfia Verticillata can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a well-lit area and receives regular watering.
Q: Does Rauvolfia Verticillata have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, Rauvolfia Verticillata has been used in traditional medicine to treat high blood pressure and mental disorders.
Q: How often should Rauvolfia Verticillata be fertilized?
A: Rauvolfia Verticillata should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Rauvolfia Verticillata?
A: Rauvolfia Verticillata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Rauvolfia Serpentina
- Rauvolfia Canescens
- Rauvolfia Nukuhivensis
References
- “Rauvolfia Verticillata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a247.
- “Rauvolfia Verticillata.” Plantz Africa, www.plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/rauvolver.htm.
- “Rauvolfia Verticillata.” World Agroforestry Centre, www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/AFTPDFS/Rauvolfia_verticillata.PDF.
