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Description
Strobilanthes Auriculata Var. Dyeriana, also known as Dyer’s Persian Shield or Dyer’s Strobilanthes, is a stunning plant with vibrant, purple and silver leaves. It is a member of the Acanthaceae family and is native to Myanmar and Thailand. This plant is highly appreciated for its striking foliage and is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens or as a houseplant. It is easy to care for and can add a pop of color to any room or outdoor space.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Strobilanthes |
Appearance
Strobilanthes Auriculata Var. Dyeriana is a bushy, perennial plant that can grow up to 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It has large, ovate leaves that are 4-7 inches long and 2-5 inches wide. The leaves are a beautiful mix of purple and silver with a metallic sheen that reflects light. The plant produces small, tubular, pinkish-purple flowers that bloom in the summer and fall.
Care Guide
Strobilanthes Auriculata Var. Dyeriana is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
- Water: This plant prefers consistently moist but well-draining soil. Water it regularly, but be careful not to overwater as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
- Sunlight: Strobilanthes Auriculata Var. Dyeriana prefers partial shade to full sun, but it can also grow in full shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Strobilanthes Auriculata Var. Dyeriana is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, whiteflies, and mealybugs. To prevent these pests, keep the plant in a humid environment and occasionally mist the leaves. If you notice any infestations, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can also be a problem if the soil is too wet, so be sure to let the soil dry out a bit between waterings.
Habitat
Strobilanthes Auriculata Var. Dyeriana is native to Myanmar and Thailand, where it grows in tropical and subtropical forests. It prefers moist soil and partial shade, but it can also grow in full sun or full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Strobilanthes Auriculata Var. Dyeriana a good houseplant?
A: Yes, it is an excellent houseplant because it is easy to care for and adds a pop of color to any room.
Q: Can Strobilanthes Auriculata Var. Dyeriana grow in full sun?
A: Yes, it can grow in full sun, but it prefers partial shade to full sun.
Q: How often should I water Strobilanthes Auriculata Var. Dyeriana?
A: Water the plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater as it can lead to root rot. Let the soil dry out a bit between waterings.
Q: Can Strobilanthes Auriculata Var. Dyeriana grow in hardiness zones 7-8?
A: No, it is hardy in zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Strobilanthes Dyerianus
- Strobilanthes Gossypinus
- Strobilanthes Kunthiana
- Strobilanthes Wallichii
References
- “Strobilanthes auriculata var. dyeriana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h410.
- “Strobilanthes auriculata var. dyeriana.” Plant Care Today, 23 Mar. 2021, plantcaretoday.com/strobilanthes-auriculata-var-dyeriana
- “Strobilanthes auriculata var. dyeriana.” Gardening Know How, 16 Apr. 2021, www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/persian-shield/strobilanthes-auriculata-var-dyeriana.htm.
