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Description
Rondeletia Odorata, commonly known as the Sweet Rondeletia or Panama Rose, is a species of flowering shrub native to Central and South America. It belongs to the Rubiaceae family and is highly valued for its ornamental purposes. The plant is named after Guillaume Rondelet, a French naturalist and physician who lived in the 16th century.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Rondeletia |
| Species | Rondeletia odorata |
Appearance
Rondeletia Odorata is a perennial evergreen shrub that can grow up to 6 feet in height and 4 feet in width. Its leaves are glossy and dark green, with a lance-shaped form that measures up to 6 inches in length. The plant produces clusters of small, tubular flowers that bloom from summer through fall. The flowers are typically pink or red in color, with a sweet fragrance that attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Rondeletia Odorata is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips to keep your Sweet Rondeletia thriving:
Water: Water your plant regularly, but do not allow the soil to become too wet or waterlogged. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil.
Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the plant to produce fewer flowers.
Soil: The plant prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH level between 5.5 and 6.5. Use a well-draining soil mix that contains organic matter.
Sunlight: Rondeletia Odorata thrives in full sun to partial shade. Place your plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11, but can be grown in colder zones if protected from frost.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rondeletia Odorata is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally be affected by spider mites, whiteflies, and mealybugs. To prevent these insects from infesting your plant, regularly inspect it for signs of damage or infestation. If necessary, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or oil.
Habitat
Rondeletia Odorata is native to Central and South America, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and disturbed areas. The plant is commonly cultivated for its ornamental value and is used in gardens and parks around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rondeletia Odorata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I prune my Rondeletia Odorata?
A: Prune the plant as needed to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Pruning should be done after the plant has finished blooming.
Q: Is Rondeletia Odorata toxic to pets?
A: The plant is not toxic to pets, but it is always a good idea to keep pets away from plants to prevent accidental ingestion.
Q: Can Rondeletia Odorata be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
– Rondeletia leucophylla- Rondeletia buxifolia- Rondeletia jasminiflora- Rondeletia longiflora- Rondeletia splendens
References
– “Rondeletia odorata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 22, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfinderdetails.aspx?kempercode=h440.- “Rondeletia odorata.” Gardening Know How. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/rondeletia/rondeletia-shrub.htm.- “Rondeletia odorata.” PlantFiles. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/56939/.
