Red Cytinus
cytinus ruber
Also known as: ["Red Cytinus","Red Cytinus plant"]
Overview
A parasitic flowering plant in the family Cytinaceae, notable for its reddish inflorescences and lack of chlorophyll.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Cytinaceae |
| Genus: | Cytinus |
| Botanical Name: | Cytinus ruber |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container with dappled light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy soil with some organic matter; suitable for parasitic plants.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead material is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Low to medium indirect light; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch the plant.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from low light; keep away from direct sun exposure; suitable for shaded indoor locations.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlychallenging
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; provide filtered light; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; maintain slightly acidic pH.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost.
Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain moderate warmth.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then every 3 months with diluted liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Primarily by seed; vegetative propagation is challenging due to its parasitic nature.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds on the surface of the medium.
- Keep moist.
- Provide warmth and indirect light.
- Attach to host plant if propagating vegetatively.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; requires a host plant for parasitic growth.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix; requires a host plant for parasitic propagation.
Hormone
Not applicable for seed propagation; rooting hormone may aid vegetative cuttings if attempted.
Timeline
Seeds may take several months to germinate; establishment can take a year or more.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, misting bottle, heat mat, host plant (if applicable).
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; maintain consistent moisture; provide a host plant for parasitic growth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or damaged parts with clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; remove dead or damaged parts to maintain health.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; avoid cutting healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from the current pot; avoid over-potting.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only when necessary, as it prefers being slightly root-bound; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Use well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes; handle roots gently; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring moisture reaches the root ball without saturating the soil. Water early in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or cessation of growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Protect from drafts and cold windows; move to a warmer location if temperatures drop too low.
Hot Stress
Can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration in temperatures above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Cytinus ruber, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects. The plant's compounds are particularly harmful due to cats' limited ability to metabolize certain toxins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Cytinus ruber can lead to significant gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity. The plant's irritant compounds may cause severe discomfort and require veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCytinus ruber contains compounds that can induce gastrointestinal distress and systemic toxicity upon ingestion. The plant's effects are primarily due to irritant and emetic properties that disrupt normal digestive and metabolic functions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cytinus ruber a parasitic plant?
A: Yes, it is a holoparasitic plant that lacks chlorophyll and relies on host plants for nutrients.
Q: Where is Cytinus ruber typically found?
A: It is found in Mediterranean regions, often parasitizing roots of fig trees (Ficus species).
Q: Is Cytinus ruber toxic to humans or pets?
A: Its toxicity is unknown, and it is not commonly encountered outside specialized botanical collections.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cytinaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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