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Description
Sarcolaena Oblongifolia, also known as the White-veined Sarcolaena, is a small evergreen shrub that can grow up to 1 meter tall. It is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. This plant is known for its glossy, dark green leaves and white veins that run through them. The flowers of Sarcolaena Oblongifolia are small, white, and fragrant, and they bloom in clusters at the tips of the branches.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Sarcolaena |
Appearance
The leaves of Sarcolaena Oblongifolia are glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped. They can grow up to 10 cm long and 5 cm wide. The veins running through the leaves are white and provide a beautiful contrast to the dark green color of the leaves. The flowers of this plant are small, white, and fragrant, and they grow in clusters at the tips of the branches. Sarcolaena Oblongifolia is an evergreen shrub, which means it retains its leaves throughout the year.
Care Guide
Water: Sarcolaena Oblongifolia prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).
Soil: Sarcolaena Oblongifolia grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Sarcolaena Oblongifolia is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sarcolaena Oblongifolia is generally a hardy plant and is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can occur if the plant is overwatered or if the soil does not drain well.
Habitat
Sarcolaena Oblongifolia is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It grows in lowland and montane forests, often on limestone hills.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sarcolaena Oblongifolia a good indoor plant?
A: Sarcolaena Oblongifolia can be grown indoors, but it prefers partial shade to full shade, which can be difficult to provide indoors. It is best grown outdoors in a shaded area.
Q: How often should I fertilize Sarcolaena Oblongifolia?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) every 4-6 weeks.
Q: Can Sarcolaena Oblongifolia tolerate frost?
A: No, Sarcolaena Oblongifolia is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from frost.
Q: How often should I water Sarcolaena Oblongifolia?
A: Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Related Plants
- Sarcolaena Chinensis
- Sarcolaena Grandiflora
- Sarcolaena Javanica
- Sarcolaena Multiflora
References
- “Sarcolaena Oblongifolia.” Flora of China, efloras.org.
- “Sarcolaena Oblongifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, missouribotanicalgarden.org.
- “Sarcolaena Oblongifolia.” Plant Finder, plantfinder.sunset.com.
