Overview
Pavonia triloba Guill. & Perr. is a plant species in the Malvaceae family. It is commonly known as "pavonia," "rock rose," or "turk's cap," and is native to South America.
General Appearance
Pavonia triloba is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 5 feet high and 3 feet wide. The branches are slender and the leaves are dark green, hairy, and triangular in shape. The flowers are rose or pink, with five petals that are fused to form a tube. They bloom from late spring to fall and are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Uses
The plant has ornamental value and is often used in landscaping. The leaves and flowers can be used to make an infusion that is said to have medicinal properties, such as being a digestive aid and having antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Some indigenous groups in South America have used the plant to treat respiratory and digestive problems.
The wood from the plant is hard and durable, making it useful for making stakes, tools, and other items.
Pavonia triloba is also used in traditional medicine to treat fever, cough, and sore throat. In some parts of the world, it is believed to have aphrodisiac properties.
Cultivation
Pavonia triloba thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant once established, but benefits from regular watering during dry periods. The plant can be propagated from cuttings or from seed.
It is important to note that ingestion of the plant can be toxic and cause gastrointestinal upset. For this reason, it is not recommended to be consumed orally unless under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Light Requirements
Pavonia triloba requires bright and indirect sunlight for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade but must receive at least six hours of sunlight daily. In low-light conditions, the plant produces fewer blooms and may become leggy.
Temperature Requirements
Pavonia triloba thrives in warm temperatures between 60°C to 85°F (15°C to 29°C). It is not frost-tolerant, and the temperatures should not drop below 55°F (12°C) to prevent damage to the plant. The plant's leaf size may be smaller in high-temperature conditions if it does not receive enough water.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Pavonia triloba needs to be well-draining with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in nutrients, organic matter and loamy. Sandy soil and heavy clay are not suitable for growing this plant. The addition of some perlite or sand can increase soil drainage. The plant must be watered right away if the soil dries out by more than a half-inch.
Cultivation
The Pavonia triloba Guill. & Perr., also known as the Brazilian candle, is a plant that requires a lot of light to grow and flourish. It does well in tropical and subtropical climates, and it's sensitive to cold weather. The recommended temperature range is between 16 and 32°C, and it's recommended to grow it in a well-draining soil mix with a pH level between 5.5 and 6.5.
The plant can be propagated through cuttings or seeds. The cuttings should be taken from the tips of the branches, and they should be planted in sterile potting mix and kept moist until the roots develop. Seeds can be planted directly in the soil, and they take about 2-3 weeks to germinate.
Watering Needs
Pavonia triloba requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, but not wet. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal for the plant. Watering should be done once a week, or more often in hot weather or if the soil dries out quickly. It's essential to ensure that the soil is draining correctly to avoid waterlogging.
The plant is sensitive to salts, which can accumulate in the soil over time. It's recommended to use distilled water or rainwater for irrigation, or water with a low salt concentration.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential to keep the plant healthy and promote growth. Pavonia triloba requires a well-balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 12-12-12. Fertilizers should be applied every two weeks during the growing season, which is usually from spring to fall.
It's essential not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which can damage the roots. It's recommended to reduce fertilizer during the winter months and stop feeding during the dormant period.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape of the plant and promote bushy growth. The best time to prune Pavonia triloba is in the late winter or early spring when the plant is dormant. It's recommended to use sharp, sterile pruning shears to prevent the spread of disease and infections.
During pruning, it's essential to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. It's also recommended to pinch back the tips of the new growth to promote bushy growth. The plant can be trimmed to maintain a desirable shape, but it's not necessary.
Propagation of Pavonia triloba Guill. & Perr.
Pavonia triloba Guill. & Perr. is a beautiful ornamental shrub that can be easily propagated through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation through seeds
To propagate through seeds, collect the ripe fruit, which is often a capsule. Remove the seeds from the capsule and sow them in well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight. Germination can take up to two weeks. Transplant the seedlings into individual pots when they are about 2-3 inches tall.
Propagation through cuttings
To propagate through cuttings, take 4-6 inch-long stem cuttings from the parent plant during the spring season. Cut the stem just below a node and remove all the leaves from the lower half of the stem. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a bright, indirect light location. Rooting should occur within 2-3 weeks. Transplant the rooted cuttings into individual pots when they have developed a proper root system.
Propagation through layering
To propagate through layering, gently bend a low-hanging branch of the parent plant towards the ground and make a small cut or wound on the underside of the branch. Cover the wounded area with soil and secure it with a bent wire. Keep the soil consistently moist until roots have developed, which can take a few months. Once the rooted branch is well established, it can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted into its own container or planted in the ground.
Disease Management
Pavonia triloba is generally resistant to most plant diseases. However, the following diseases may affect the plant:
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot disease is characterized by circular or irregular-shaped brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove and dispose of the infected leaves, and avoid overhead watering to minimize leaf wetness.
- Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot and the plant to wilt. To prevent this disease, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering the plant. In the case of infection, remove the affected parts and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Pest Management
Some pests may infest Pavonia triloba, which includes:
- Spider mites: Spider mites cause yellowing of leaves and the formation of fine webs on the plants. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water regularly, and use a miticide if necessary.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, and waxy pests that suck on plants' sap and leave a sticky residue. To manage mealybugs, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them from the plant.
- Scale insects: Scale insects are small, immobile pests that suck on the sap of the plant. Use insecticidal soap or oil to control scale insects, or wipe the plant with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol.
Regularly checking your plant for any signs of disease or pest infestation and taking swift action will help keep your Pavonia triloba healthy and thriving.
