Contents
1. Description
Tenaxia Cumminsii is a type of flowering plant that belongs to the family Melastomataceae. It is native to Brazil and is commonly found in the Cerrado biome. The plant is also known by its common names, which include “Purple Heart” and “Lacerda’s Tenaxia”. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 2 meters tall and 1 meter wide. The leaves are green in color and are oval-shaped with a pointed tip. The flowers are small and pink in color, and bloom in clusters during the summer months.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Melastomataceae |
| Genus | Tenaxia |
| Species | Cumminsii |
3. Appearance
Tenaxia Cumminsii has a unique appearance that makes it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers. The plant has a woody stem that is grayish-brown in color and has a rough texture. The leaves are lance-shaped and have a glossy, dark green appearance. The flowers are small and pink in color, and bloom in clusters during the summer months. The plant produces small, black berries that are edible but not commonly consumed. When the plant is not in bloom, its leaves remain green and add an attractive texture to any landscape.
4. Care Guide
Tenaxia Cumminsii is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant Tenaxia Cumminsii in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can also tolerate full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Tenaxia Cumminsii can be grown in hardiness zones 9 to 11.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
Tenaxia Cumminsii is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, the plant can be affected by the following pests and diseases:
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause discoloration and premature leaf drop. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal for the plant. Make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
- Mildew: High humidity can cause mildew to develop on the leaves. Treat with a fungicide.
6. Habitat
Tenaxia Cumminsii is native to Brazil and is commonly found in the Cerrado biome. The Cerrado is a tropical savanna ecoregion characterized by a diverse range of plant and animal species. The plant prefers well-draining soils and can grow in both partial shade and full sun.
7. Question and Answer
Q: Is Tenaxia Cumminsii a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Tenaxia Cumminsii is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for and is a great choice for beginners.
Q: How often should I water my Tenaxia Cumminsii plant?
A: Water your Tenaxia Cumminsii plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Can I grow Tenaxia Cumminsii in a pot?
A: Yes, Tenaxia Cumminsii can be grown in a pot as long as it has well-draining soil and is watered regularly.
Q: How tall can Tenaxia Cumminsii grow?
A: Tenaxia Cumminsii can grow up to 2 meters tall and 1 meter wide.
9. Related Plants
- Tenaxia Macrophylla
- Tenaxia Flemingii
- Tenaxia Racemosa
- Tenaxia Polyphylla
10. References
- Flora do Brasil 2020 under construction. Tropicos.org. Missouri Botanical Garden. 28 Apr 2021
- Silva, F. R., et al. (2016). Melastomataceae in Lista de Espécies da Flora do Brasil. Jardim Botânico do Rio de Janeiro.
- The Plant List (2013). Version 1.1. Published on the Internet.
