Mussaenda erythrophylla
TAXONOMY
FamilyRubiaceae
GenusMussaenda
Zone10
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Mussaenda erythrophylla, commonly known as Red Flag Bush or Ashanti Blood, is a scrambling shrub or small tree native to tropical West Africa. It is known for its striking red or pink bracts that surround small, star-shaped flowers. This plant thrives in wet tropical climates and is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Ashanti Blood
Diente Rojo
Red Flag Bush
Tropical Dogwood
Mussaenda fulgens
Mussaenda splendida
Red flag mussaenda
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity80%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Mussaenda erythrophylla requires bright, indirect light and thrives in warm, humid conditions. It prefers consistently moist soil and should be watered regularly to maintain its lush appearance. The plant does well in moderate temperatures and high humidity, making it suitable for tropical and subtropical regions.Soil
This plant prefers well-draining loamy soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. A rich, organic soil mix is ideal to support its growth. Ensure the soil is kept consistently moist to mimic its natural tropical habitat.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and vibrant bracts. Reduce fertilization during the dormant period, if applicable.Repotting
Repot Mussaenda erythrophylla every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Propagate Mussaenda erythrophylla through stem cuttings. Take cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems during the growing season. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and provide high humidity until roots develop.Pruning
Prune the plant regularly to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged branches and trim back overgrown stems. Pruning can be done throughout the growing season as needed.Toxicity
Mussaenda erythrophylla is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always advisable to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to prevent any accidental ingestion.Additional
To enhance the plant's appearance, regularly clean the leaves to remove dust and debris. This will also help prevent pests and diseases. Additionally, consider providing support for the plant to climb or scramble, as it can grow quite large and may need assistance to maintain its structure.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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