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oxera brevicalyx
Also known as: []
Overview
A species of flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae, native to New Caledonia.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Oxera |
| Botanical Name: | Oxera brevicalyx |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a humid, sheltered area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun in winter if possible.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, use sheer curtains to diffuse intense light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid direct midday sun; provide dappled light if outdoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil every 2 years.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler temperatures (55–60°F or 13–15°C) at night; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Use a thermometer to monitor; avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain stable conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier form; shape as needed to maintain aesthetic appeal.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or bud drop in cold; leaf scorch or stunted growth in heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
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
Non-toxicOxera brevicalyx is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicOxera brevicalyx is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicOxera brevicalyx is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It has no reported adverse effects on human physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is Oxera brevicalyx native to?
A: It is native to New Caledonia.
Q: What is the family of Oxera brevicalyx?
A: It belongs to the family Lamiaceae.
Q: Is Oxera brevicalyx toxic to pets?
A: The toxicity to pets is unknown.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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