Contents
Description
Thladiantha Nudiflora is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Cucurbitaceae. It is native to China and is commonly known as the Chinese squash or naked-flowered thladiantha. The plant is known for its edible tuber, which is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of ailments. The tuber is also used as a food source in some parts of China.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Dicotyledonae |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Cucurbitaceae |
| Genus | Thladiantha |
Appearance
Thladiantha Nudiflora is a climbing vine that can grow up to 2-3 meters long. The leaves are heart-shaped and can grow up to 15 cm wide. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that are approximately 1 cm in diameter. The flowers are unique in that they lack petals and sepals, giving them a “naked” appearance. The plant also produces small, spherical fruits that are approximately 2 cm in diameter. The fruits are green when immature and turn yellow when ripe.
Care Guide
Thladiantha Nudiflora is a relatively low-maintenance plant. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Fertilizer can be added during the growing season to promote healthy growth. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Thladiantha Nudiflora is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and downy mildew. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Thladiantha Nudiflora is native to China and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and hillsides. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Thladiantha Nudiflora edible?
A: Yes, the tuber of Thladiantha Nudiflora is edible and is used in traditional Chinese medicine and as a food source in some parts of China.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Thladiantha Nudiflora?
A: Thladiantha Nudiflora is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Q: What pests are common on Thladiantha Nudiflora?
A: Thladiantha Nudiflora can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites.
Q: What diseases are common on Thladiantha Nudiflora?
A: Thladiantha Nudiflora can be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and downy mildew.
Related Plants
- Thladiantha Dubia
- Thladiantha Nudiflora var. glabra
- Thladiantha Cordifolia
- Thladiantha Racemosa
References
- Flora of China. (n.d.). Thladiantha nudiflora. Retrieved August 16, 2021, from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200027926
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Thladiantha nudiflora. Retrieved August 16, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a540
- Hu, B., & Zhang, C. (2016). A review on the botanical characteristics, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities and quality control of Thladiantha Dubia and Thladiantha Nudiflora. Chinese Journal of Natural Medicines, 14(9), 641-654.
