Trichocladus

Description

Trichocladus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Melastomataceae. It is native to South America and includes around 20 species of shrubs and small trees. The name Trichocladus comes from the Greek words trichos (hair) and klados (branch), referring to the hairy stems and branches of these plants. They are commonly known as “pennyworts” or “tiger’s claws.”

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Trichocladus plants have hairy stems and branches, with opposite leaves that are simple, entire, and usually ovate or elliptic in shape. The flowers are showy, with 4-5 petals and a distinctive tubular shape. They come in shades of pink, purple, or white, and are borne in clusters at the ends of the branches. The fruit is a small capsule containing many tiny seeds.

Care Guide

Trichocladus plants are easy to care for and can be grown in containers or in the ground. They prefer moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Trichocladus plants prefer partial shade to full sun and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but are best suited to hardiness zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Trichocladus plants are generally pest and disease free, but can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Spider mites and mealybugs may occasionally be a problem, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

Trichocladus plants are native to South America, where they grow in tropical and subtropical forests, often along riverbanks or in wetlands. They are also cultivated as ornamental plants in gardens and parks.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Trichocladus plant?

A: Water your Trichocladus plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water more frequently during hot, dry weather.

Q: What kind of soil is best for Trichocladus plants?

A: Trichocladus plants prefer moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.

Q: Can Trichocladus plants tolerate full sun?

A: Yes, Trichocladus plants can tolerate full sun, but prefer partial shade.

Q: What hardiness zones are Trichocladus plants best suited to?

A: Trichocladus plants are best suited to hardiness zones 9-11.

Related Plants

• Blakea
• Conostegia
• Miconia
• Tibouchina

References

• Flora of Ecuador. (2019). Trichocladus. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=201&taxon_id=132877
• Mabberley, D. J. (2017). Mabberley’s Plant Book: A Portable Dictionary of Plants, their Classification and Uses. Cambridge University Press.
• The Plant List. (2013). Trichocladus. Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/browse/A/Melastomataceae/Trichocladus/