Tetrapteron

Description

Tetrapteron is a genus of flowering plants in the family Melastomataceae, native to Central and South America. The name Tetrapteron comes from the Greek words tetra meaning four and pteron meaning wing, referring to the four-winged fruits of the plant. This genus contains around 40 species of shrubs and small trees that grow up to 10 meters tall in their natural habitat.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Tetrapteron plants have simple, opposite leaves that are dark green and shiny. The flowers are small and clustered, with a pink or purple color. The fruit is a woody capsule that splits open into four wings when ripe. The bark is smooth and gray, with some species having a flaky texture. The plant has a compact growth habit and makes an excellent addition to any garden or landscape.

Care Guide

To grow Tetrapteron successfully, you need to provide the plant with the right conditions:

• Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Plant Tetrapteron in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Tetrapteron prefers full sun to partial shade, so make sure to plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: Tetrapteron is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Tetrapteron plants are generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil. To avoid this, make sure to water the plant properly and plant it in well-draining soil. Additionally, keep an eye out for spider mites, which can infest the plant and cause leaf damage. Treat spider mites with a commercial pesticide or by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them.

Habitat

Tetrapteron plants are native to Central and South America, where they grow in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, savannas, and dry forests. They prefer well-draining soil and a warm, tropical climate but can tolerate some drought conditions.

Question and Answer

• Q: How often should I water my Tetrapteron plant?
• A: Water your Tetrapteron plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Q: What kind of soil does Tetrapteron prefer?
• A: Tetrapteron prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Q: What hardiness zones is Tetrapteron suitable for?
• A: Tetrapteron is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
• Q: Can Tetrapteron be grown indoors?
• A: Tetrapteron can be grown indoors if provided with bright, indirect sunlight and warm temperatures.

Related Plants

• Miconia
• Blakea
• Meriania
• Macairea

References

• “Tetrapteron.” The Plant List. Accessed 12 May 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Melastomataceae/Tetrapteron/
• “Tetrapteron.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 12 May 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287139&isprofile=0&
• “Tetrapteron.” Flora of Ecuador. Accessed 12 May 2021. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=50&taxon_id=133311