Contents
Description
Schizocarphus is a genus of plants that belongs to the family Verbenaceae. It is native to South America, particularly in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The genus name comes from the Greek words “schizo” meaning “split” and “karphos” meaning “fruit”, which refers to the distinctive fruit of the plant that splits into four parts.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Genus | Schizocarphus |
Appearance
Schizocarphus plants are small to medium-sized shrubs that can grow up to 2 meters tall. They have opposite leaves that are simple, serrated, and oval to lanceolate in shape. The flowers are small, tubular, and arranged in clusters. They come in various colors such as white, pink, purple, and blue. The fruit of the plant is a schizocarp that splits into four parts when ripe, revealing small, black seeds.
Care Guide
Schizocarphus plants are relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly but make sure not to overwater it as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the Schizocarphus in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Schizocarphus plants can grow in hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Schizocarphus plants are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may still be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to curl or turn yellow.
- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and mottling of the leaves.
- Root rot: Overwatering the plant can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Habitat
Schizocarphus plants are native to South America, particularly in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. They can be found growing in a variety of habitats such as savannahs, grasslands, and forests.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Schizocarphus plants tolerate drought?
A: Although Schizocarphus plants prefer moist soil, they can tolerate some drought. However, it is still important to water them regularly.
Q: Can Schizocarphus plants be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Schizocarphus plants can be grown indoors as long as they receive enough sunlight and are planted in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize Schizocarphus plants?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: How do I propagate Schizocarphus plants?
A: Schizocarphus plants can be propagated through stem cuttings or by seeds.
Related Plants
- Verbena
- Lantana
- Phyla
References
- PlantList. (2021). Schizocarphus. Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Verbenaceae/Schizocarphus/
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Schizocarphus. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=284480&isprofile=0&basic=schizocarphus
- Encyclopedia of Life. (n.d.). Schizocarphus. Retrieved from https://eol.org/pages/1134114
