Origin
Pavonia burchellii (DC.) R.A.Dyer subsp. craspedocarpa (Ulbr.) Heine is a plant species that belongs to the family Malvaceae. The plant is commonly found in South America, specifically in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay.
Common Names
This plant has several common names like Brazilian Candle, Burchell's Pavonia, and Craspedocarpa Pavonia.
Uses
The plant Pavonia burchellii (DC.) R.A.Dyer subsp. craspedocarpa (Ulbr.) Heine is used for ornamental purposes. It is a popular choice for gardeners due to its attractive, showy pink flowers, making it an ideal plant for borders or focal points in gardens. The colorful flowers also make it a great plant for containers and hanging baskets.
General Appearance
The Pavonia burchellii (DC.) R.A.Dyer subsp. craspedocarpa (Ulbr.) Heine is an evergreen plant that often grows up to 3 feet tall and just as wide. The plant has a rounded shape and woody stems that support its spreading branches. The leaves are oval-shaped, broad, and have a rough texture. The pink flowers of this plant are showy, having papery petals with a deep pink color. The flowers are borne in clusters that appear on the branch tips from spring to fall, making this plant a beautiful addition to gardens in both spring and summer.
Light Requirements
The Pavonia burchellii (DC.) R.A.Dyer subsp. craspedocarpa (Ulbr.) Heine typically grow under full sun to light shade conditions. These plants require at least 6 hours of sunlight daily to produce vibrant and healthy foliage and flowers. However, they can also grow in partial shade but may have fewer blooms and less vibrant foliage.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Pavonia burchellii (DC.) R.A.Dyer subsp. craspedocarpa (Ulbr.) Heine thrives in warm and humid conditions. It prefers temperatures between 20-32°C (68-90°F). These plants are not frost-tolerant and may die if exposed to freezing temperatures. Therefore, it is crucial to protect them during winter months by bringing them indoors or providing ample frost protection.
Soil Requirements
Pavonia burchellii (DC.) R.A.Dyer subsp. craspedocarpa (Ulbr.) Heine prefers well-drained, moist, and nutrient-rich soil. The ideal pH range for these plants is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 to 7.0. You can create the perfect soil mixture by combining organic materials, such as compost, with sandy soil. The addition of perlite or vermiculite can help improve drainage. It is essential to avoid waterlogging as it can lead to root rot and eventual death of the plant.
Cultivation
Pavonia burchellii (DC.) R.A.Dyer subsp. craspedocarpa (Ulbr.) Heine grows well in areas with a warm and temperate climate. It adapts well to both indoor and outdoor cultivation, although it tends to grow better in well-ventilated spaces with bright light for at least six hours a day. The plant prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It also requires consistent humidity, which can be maintained by regular misting or placing a tray with water near the plant.
Watering Needs
Pavonia burchellii (DC.) R.A.Dyer subsp. craspedocarpa (Ulbr.) Heine needs regular watering to maintain consistent moisture levels in the soil. However, overwatering can lead to root rot or other fungal diseases, so it is essential to avoid leaving the soil water-logged. A good rule of thumb is to water the plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry to the touch. During hot and dry seasons, the plant may need more frequent watering to prevent dehydration.
Fertilization
To encourage healthy growth and blooming, it is recommended to fertilize Pavonia burchellii (DC.) R.A.Dyer subsp. craspedocarpa (Ulbr.) Heine every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) using a balanced fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to prevent overfertilization, which can damage the plant's roots. It is also essential to flush out the soil periodically to prevent salt buildup from fertilizers.
Pruning
Pavonia burchellii (DC.) R.A.Dyer subsp. craspedocarpa (Ulbr.) Heine does not require heavy pruning, but it benefits from occasional shaping to remove dead or damaged stems and promote bushier growth. Pruning can be done anytime during the growing season. Deadheading spent flowers also encourages the plant to continue producing blooms. Avoid pruning during the dormant season, as it can affect the next season's flowering.
Propagation of Pavonia burchellii (DC.) R.A.Dyer subsp. craspedocarpa (Ulbr.) Heine
Pavonia burchellii (DC.) R.A.Dyer subsp. craspedocarpa (Ulbr.) Heine, commonly known as Burchell's Pavonia, is a beautiful flowering shrub found in South America. This plant can be propagated through several methods which include:
Seed Propagation
The simplest and most cost-effective method of propagation is through seeds. Collect seeds from the plant when the seed pods ripen and turn brown. After collecting seeds, clean and dry them to prevent rotting. Sow the seeds in a soil mix of sand and peat moss, ensuring good drainage. Keep the soil moist and warm. The seeds will germinate within 2-3 weeks and will produce young plants that can be transplanted when they outgrow their pots.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation through stem cuttings is also a viable method. Take cuttings that are 4 to 6 inches long from the healthy branches of the plant. Remove the lower leaves and plant them in a pot containing well-drained potting soil. Keep the soil moist, and it will take 4 to 6 weeks for the cuttings to root. Once rooted, the young plants can be transplanted into larger containers.
Division Propagation
Another propagation method is through division. This is done by digging up the root system of the parent plant and dividing it into two or more sections using a sharp knife. Each section must have roots and some stems. Pot the divided sections in fresh soil and water them thoroughly. Keep the soil moist until new growth shows.
The propagation methods described above can be applied to propagate Pavonia burchellii (DC.) R.A.Dyer subsp. craspedocarpa (Ulbr.) Heine, and the young plants produced can be used for landscaping, gardening, or propagation.
Disease Management
The Pavonia burchellii (DC.) R.A.Dyer subsp. craspedocarpa (Ulbr.) Heine is generally not susceptible to many diseases, but there are a few that can affect the plant.
Crown Rot: This disease is caused by a fungi and is characterized by the rotting of the plant at the base of the stem. To manage it, the affected plant should be immediately removed and disposed of properly to prevent further contamination.
Leaf Spot: This disease is characterized by yellow, brown, or black spots on the leaves. To prevent this disease, avoid overwatering and watering the leaves of the plant. If necessary, use a fungicide to manage the disease.
Root Rot: This is a serious disease which discolors the roots, makes them soft, and eventually causing the plant to die. To manage this disease, adopt good sanitation practices: avoid overwatering, proper drainage, and use of pathogen-free soil. In the case of the disease already setting on the plant, the affected parts should be removed and disposed of properly.
Pest Management
There are a few common pests that can affect the Pavonia burchellii (DC.) R.A.Dyer subsp. craspedocarpa (Ulbr.) Heine. Here are some ways to manage them:
Aphids: These are small insects that suck the plant sap and can cause the leaves to curl. You can manage them by using a gentle stream of water to wash them away from the plant or use a natural insecticide such as a mixture of water and dish soap.
Spider Mites: These are tiny mites that form webs on the leaves and can cause damage to the plant. They can be managed by washing them off with a stream of water or using an insecticidal soap.
Mealybugs: These insects can cause damage to the plant by sucking the sap and excreting honeydew. They can also cause the leaves and stem to turn brown. To manage them, use a natural insecticide such as a mixture of water and dish soap.
Regular inspection of the plant for any sign of infestation and early treatment of any pests is the best preventive measure you can take to maintain a healthy Pavonia burchellii (DC.) R.A.Dyer subsp. craspedocarpa (Ulbr.) Heine plant.
