Contents
Description
Vallesia Glabra is a shrub species that belongs to the family Celastraceae. It is commonly known as “Sacha Ajo” in its native region, which is the Andes Mountains of South America. The plant has a unique fragrance that is similar to garlic, and it is often used for medicinal purposes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Celastrales |
| Family | Celastraceae |
| Genus | Vallesia |
Appearance
The Vallesia Glabra plant can grow up to 6 meters tall, but it is usually smaller in cultivation. It has glossy, dark green leaves that are oblong in shape and can grow up to 20 cm long. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, and they grow in clusters. The fruit is a capsule that contains one or two seeds.
Care Guide
Vallesia Glabra requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers moist soil but can tolerate drought conditions. The plant should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures down to -5°C.
Water
The plant should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. However, it should not be overwatered, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
A balanced fertilizer should be applied every two weeks during the growing season. The fertilizer should be high in nitrogen to encourage leaf growth.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Sunlight
Vallesia Glabra prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not flower as well in shady conditions.
Hardiness Zones
The plant can tolerate temperatures down to -5°C and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vallesia Glabra is susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, and mealybugs. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot.
Habitat
Vallesia Glabra is native to the Andes Mountains of South America, where it grows in the cloud forests at elevations between 1500 and 3000 meters. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the medicinal use of Vallesia Glabra?
A: Vallesia Glabra is often used for medicinal purposes, including as a treatment for respiratory problems and as an antiseptic.
Q: Is Vallesia Glabra a fast-growing plant?
A: No, Vallesia Glabra is a slow-growing plant.
Q: Can Vallesia Glabra be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Vallesia Glabra can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough sunlight.
Q: Does Vallesia Glabra require pruning?
A: Vallesia Glabra does not require pruning, but it can be pruned to maintain its shape.
Related Plants
- Maytenus Boaria
- Celastrus Orbiculatus
- Celastrus Scandens
References
- Vallesia Glabra. (n.d.). Retrieved September 16, 2021, from https://www.wikiwand.com/en/Vallesia_glabra
- Vallesia Glabra. (n.d.). Retrieved September 16, 2021, from https://www.plantsrescue.com/vallesia-glabra/
- Vallesia Glabra. (n.d.). Retrieved September 16, 2021, from https://www.thespruce.com/vallesia-glabra-1902682
