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Description
Stephanotis Floribunda, commonly known as Madagascar Jasmine or Bridal Wreath, is a flowering plant native to Madagascar. This evergreen vine belongs to the Apocynaceae family and is widely cultivated for its fragrant, waxy, white flowers. The plant can grow up to 20 feet tall and produces long, glossy, dark green leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Stephanotis |
Appearance
Stephanotis Floribunda produces clusters of fragrant, waxy, white flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. Each flower is shaped like a trumpet and can reach up to 2 inches in diameter. The plant’s long, glossy, dark green leaves can grow up to 4 inches long and 2 inches wide. Stephanotis Floribunda can grow up to 20 feet tall and requires support to climb.
Care Guide
Stephanotis Floribunda requires consistent care to thrive:
- Water: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil with a pH of 6 to 7.
- Sunlight: Place the plant in a bright, indirect sunlight location.
- Hardiness Zones: Stephanotis Floribunda thrives in hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stephanotis Floribunda is susceptible to several pests and diseases:
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause leaf damage and webbing on the plant.
- Scale Insects: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves.
- Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, causing the plant to wilt and die.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves.
Habitat
Stephanotis Floribunda is native to Madagascar and grows in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant prefers warm temperatures and high humidity levels. It can be grown outdoors in warm climates or indoors in cooler climates.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Stephanotis Floribunda?
A: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Can I grow Stephanotis Floribunda indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a bright, indirect sunlight location with high humidity levels.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Stephanotis Floribunda?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: How can I prevent spider mites on my Stephanotis Floribunda?
A: Regularly mist the plant with water to increase humidity levels and wash off any pests. You can also use insecticidal soap to control spider mites.
Related Plants
- Stephanotis floribunda ‘Variegata’: A variegated cultivar of Stephanotis Floribunda with white and green leaves.
- Stephanotis floribunda ‘Flore Pleno’: A double-flowered cultivar of Stephanotis Floribunda with fully double, fragrant flowers.
- Hoya carnosa: A relative of Stephanotis Floribunda with fragrant, waxy, pink and white flowers.
References
- “Stephanotis Floribunda.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 Sep. 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b578.
- “Stephanotis Floribunda.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 20 Sep. 2021. www.rhs.org.uk/plants/202315/i-stephanotis-floribunda-i/details.
- “Stephanotis Floribunda.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 20 Sep. 2021. edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP348.
