Devil’s backbone, Prickly barleria
barleria prionitis
Also known as: ["Prickly barleria","Devil’s backbone"]
Overview
A spiny, evergreen shrub with attractive, bright pink flowers and lance-shaped leaves, native to tropical regions of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Genus: | Barleria |
| Botanical Name: | Barleria prionitis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm, sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months during growing season; heavy pruning annually after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and rejuvenation needs.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to bright indirect light; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct sun in winter if grown indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (20–30°C); tolerates mild heat but avoid prolonged exposure above 35°C.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (24–28°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/damaged growth; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, avoiding wetting foliage. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or root damage.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; provide a warm, sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring-summer; avoid fertilizing in fall-winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest parts of Barleria prionitis. The plant poses a low risk but should still be kept out of reach of curious pets.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Barleria prionitis can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicBarleria prionitis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic if ingested in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Barleria prionitis toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should Barleria prionitis be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering in winter.
Q: Does Barleria prionitis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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