Contents
Description
Saltera Sarcocolla, also known as the Peruvian Saltera or Saltera Cephalantha, is a beautiful evergreen shrub native to the Andean region of South America. It belongs to the Melastomataceae family and is highly valued for its ornamental features.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Melastomataceae |
| Genus | Saltera |
Appearance
Saltera Sarcocolla is a medium-sized shrub that can reach up to 2 meters in height. It has oval or lance-shaped leaves that are dark green and glossy. The flowers are small and pink, and they bloom in clusters from late spring to mid-summer. The shrub produces fruit in the form of small capsules that contain numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Saltera Sarcocolla is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water regularly during the growing season, but make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Saltera Sarcocolla prefers partial shade, but it can also tolerate full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Saltera Sarcocolla is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Saltera Sarcocolla is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet or poorly drained. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Saltera Sarcocolla is native to the Andean region of South America, particularly in Peru and Bolivia. It grows in moist montane forests and cloud forests at elevations of 2000-4000 meters above sea level.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Saltera Sarcocolla be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Saltera Sarcocolla can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with sufficient light and humidity.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Saltera Sarcocolla?
A: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Saltera Sarcocolla drought-tolerant?
A: No, Saltera Sarcocolla prefers moist soil and does not tolerate drought well.
Q: How do I propagate Saltera Sarcocolla?
A: Saltera Sarcocolla can be propagated by stem cuttings or by seed.
Related Plants
- Saltera chrysocoma
- Saltera elegans
- Saltera fastuosa
- Saltera macrophylla
- Saltera multiflora
References
- Govaerts, R., et al. (2019). World Checklist of Melastomataceae. Facilitated by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved from http://wcsp.science.kew.org/.
- Salazar, G. A., et al. (2017). A revision of Saltera (Melastomataceae) in Peru. Phytotaxa, 312(1), 1-37.
- The Plant List (2013). Version 1.1. Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/.
