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Description
Rhabdothamnus Solandri, also known as the New Zealand Jasmine, is a species of flowering plant in the family Gesneriaceae. It is native to New Zealand and can be found in both the North and South Islands. The plant is a shrub that grows up to 3 meters tall and has dark green leaves that are 3-6 cm long. It produces tubular, trumpet-shaped flowers that are 3-4 cm long and can be either red or orange in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus | Rhabdothamnus |
Appearance
The Rhabdothamnus Solandri is a shrub that can grow up to 3 meters tall. It has dark green leaves that are 3-6 cm long and 2-3 cm wide. The leaves are opposite, meaning they grow in pairs on opposite sides of the stem. The flowers of the plant are tubular and trumpet-shaped, measuring 3-4 cm long. They can be either red or orange in color and bloom in the summer months.
Care Guide
Rhabdothamnus Solandri is a relatively low-maintenance plant. It prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly, but not over-watered. Fertilizer should be applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of hardiness zones, from 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Rhabdothamnus Solandri is relatively disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to root rot if over-watered. It may also attract aphids and spider mites, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Rhabdothamnus Solandri is native to New Zealand and can be found in both the North and South Islands. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forest margins, rocky outcrops, and scrubland.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Rhabdothamnus Solandri?
A: The plant should be watered regularly, but not over-watered. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Can Rhabdothamnus Solandri be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container. Use a well-draining potting mix and make sure the container has drainage holes.
Q: What is the best time of year to prune Rhabdothamnus Solandri?
A: Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Q: Does Rhabdothamnus Solandri attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s tubular flowers attract bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Rhabdothamnus biflorus
- Rhabdothamnus crenulatus
- Rhabdothamnus croceus
References
- “Rhabdothamnus solandri.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/rhabdothamnus-solandri/
- “Rhabdothamnus solandri.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/12190/Rhabdothamnus-solandri/Details
- “Rhabdothamnus solandri.” Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand. https://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/object/246857
