Bryonia cretica
TAXONOMY
FamilyCucurbitaceae
GenusBryonia
Zone7
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Bryonia cretica, commonly known as Cretan bryony, is a climbing tuberous geophyte in the Cucurbitaceae family. Native to the Mediterranean region, it is known for its vigorous growth and climbing habit. The plant produces small, greenish-white flowers and red berries. It has a dormancy period during the colder months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
White Bryony
Bryonia cretica f. monoica
Bryonia cretica var. monoica
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Bryonia cretica thrives in temperate climates with moderate temperatures. It prefers bright, direct sunlight and should be watered when the soil dries out almost completely. The plant benefits from moderate humidity levels and should be protected from extreme cold.Soil
Bryonia cretica prefers well-draining loamy soil. It is important to ensure that the soil does not retain excess moisture, as this can lead to root rot. A mix of garden soil with some sand or perlite can improve drainage.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, typically every 4-6 weeks, to support its vigorous growth.Repotting
Repot Bryonia cretica during its dormancy period, typically in late winter or early spring. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Carefully transfer the plant to the new pot, taking care not to damage the tuberous roots.Propagation
Bryonia cretica can be propagated through seeds or tuber division. The best time to propagate is during the dormancy period. For tuber division, carefully separate the tubers and plant them in individual pots with well-draining soil.Pruning
Pruning is necessary to control the vigorous growth of Bryonia cretica. Prune the plant during the growing season to remove any dead or damaged stems and to shape the plant. Regular pruning helps maintain its size and encourages healthy growth.Toxicity
Bryonia cretica is toxic to both pets and humans. All parts of the plant, especially the berries, contain toxic compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal distress if ingested. Handle the plant with care and keep it out of reach of children and pets.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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