Guianan Palicourea
palicourea guianensis
Also known as: []
Overview
A species of flowering plant in the family Rubiaceae, native to the Guianas and surrounding regions.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Palicourea |
| Botanical Name: | Palicourea guianensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a humid, sheltered area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: unknown
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with organic matter like peat or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: unknown
- Toughness Level: unknown
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to remove dead/damaged parts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to partial shade in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light to prevent scorching; protect from direct midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
unknownmoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Avoid heavy clay soils; use a mix with good aeration; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates a range of 60–85°F (15–29°C); avoid drafts and extreme fluctuations.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; use a thermometer to monitor; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Never fertilize dry soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup; match fertilizer to plant needs.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity, warm (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective cutting of stems, pinch back tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead/damaged growth, shape plant, encourage bushier growth; focus on maintaining health and form.
Tools
Clean pruners, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged parts, shape evenly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even moisture distribution, allow excess water to drain completely, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky components.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop; wilting in heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, may lead to root damage or death in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or leaf drop due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute correctly, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly susceptible to the toxic effects of Palicourea guianensis. The plant's toxins can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and neurological disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Palicourea guianensis by dogs can lead to severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms due to the plant's toxic constituents.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicPalicourea guianensis contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological distress upon ingestion. The plant's toxins interfere with normal cellular functions, leading to systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Palicourea guianensis toxic to pets?
A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.
Q: What are the care requirements for Palicourea guianensis?
A: Specific care requirements are not well-documented.
Q: Where is Palicourea guianensis native to?
A: It is native to the Guianas and surrounding regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | unknown |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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