Mussaenda philippica
TAXONOMY
FamilyRubiaceae
GenusMussaenda
Zone10
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Mussaenda philippica, commonly known as Bangkok Rose or Tropical Dogwood, is a flowering plant in the Rubiaceae family. Native to the Philippines and other parts of Southeast Asia, it thrives in wet tropical climates. This plant can grow as a shrub or small tree and is known for its striking, colorful bracts that surround the small, star-shaped flowers.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Buddha's-Lamp
Red Flag Bush
Mussaenda grandiflora
Mussaenda philippica f. aurorae
Philippine mussaenda
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity80%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Mussaenda philippica 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 both indoor and outdoor growth in tropical regions.Soil
This plant prefers well-draining loamy soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. A soil mix rich in organic matter is ideal. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, which can be a common issue in overly wet conditions.Fertilizer
Mussaenda philippica benefits from regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 N-P-K formulation. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth and vibrant blooms.Repotting
Repot the plant 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. Repotting is best done in the spring before the growing season begins.Propagation
Mussaenda philippica can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems in the spring or early summer. Root the cuttings in a moist, well-draining soil mix and keep them in a warm, humid environment until they establish roots.Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of the plant. Prune after the flowering season to remove dead or damaged branches and to encourage new growth. Regular pruning also helps to promote a bushier appearance.Toxicity
Mussaenda philippica 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 and health, regularly remove spent flowers and bracts. This encourages continuous blooming and keeps the plant looking tidy. Additionally, misting the plant can help maintain the high humidity levels it prefers.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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