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Description
Thespesia Lampas, also known as Portia Tree or Seaside Mahoe, is a beautiful flowering plant found in tropical regions. It belongs to the Malvaceae family and is native to the Indian Ocean islands and the western Pacific Ocean. Thespesia Lampas can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, with a dense and rounded canopy. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a leathery texture. The flowers are large and showy, with a bright yellow center and five petals that range from pale yellow to pink. The fruit is a woody capsule that contains several seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Thespesia |
| Species | Lampas |
Appearance
Thespesia Lampas is a beautiful flowering plant that can add color and texture to any landscape. It has a dense and rounded canopy that can provide shade and privacy. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a leathery texture. The flowers are large and showy, with a bright yellow center and five petals that range from pale yellow to pink. The fruit is a woody capsule that contains several seeds. Thespesia Lampas can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, depending on the growing conditions.
Care Guide
Thespesia Lampas is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for Thespesia Lampas:Water: Thespesia Lampas prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during periods of drought.Fertilization: Thespesia Lampas can benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer in early spring and late summer, following the manufacturer’s instructions.Soil: Thespesia Lampas prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-based, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.Sunlight: Thespesia Lampas prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant the tree in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Thespesia Lampas is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Thespesia Lampas is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to some common problems. Here are some of the pests and diseases that can affect Thespesia Lampas:Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of Thespesia Lampas. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Scale insects: Scale insects are small, immobile insects that can attach themselves to the leaves and stems of Thespesia Lampas. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Fungal diseases: Thespesia Lampas can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as anthracnose, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. To prevent fungal diseases, avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Thespesia Lampas is native to the Indian Ocean islands and the western Pacific Ocean. It prefers tropical and subtropical climates with well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Thespesia Lampas is often found growing near the coast, as it can tolerate salt spray and sandy soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Thespesia Lampas be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Thespesia Lampas can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full size potential.Q: Does Thespesia Lampas attract butterflies and bees?
A: Yes, Thespesia Lampas is a nectar source for butterflies and bees.Q: How often should I prune Thespesia Lampas?
A: Thespesia Lampas can be pruned in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size.Q: How long does it take for Thespesia Lampas to bloom?
A: Thespesia Lampas can bloom year-round in tropical climates, but it may only bloom seasonally in other regions.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that belong to the Malvaceae family:- Hibiscus rosa-sinensis- Abutilon megapotamicum- Gossypium hirsutum- Malva sylvestris
References
– “Thespesia Lampas.” Floridata. https://floridata.com/plant/1766- “Thespesia Lampas.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c198- “Thespesia Lampas.” PlantNet. http://www.plantnet.org/publications/popup-flore-madagascar.php?id=372- “Thespesia Lampas.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST492
