Radermachera

The genus Radermacher includes a dozen and a half species. It is named after the Dutch botanist J. K. M. Radermacher, who first described these species that originated from Java. A distinctive feature of these plants is the presence on the branches of many small oval thickenings, called "lentils". The leaves are doubly pinnate. Radermacher sinica (Radermachera sinica) is the only species that is grown as a houseplant. It requires careful care so that the leaves that adorn it do not fall off. Varieties with variegated leaves, such as 'Kaprima', were also obtained. Young leaves have a very light green color, then they begin to darken from the middle. In the conditions of natural growth or in cold greenhouses, bell-shaped flowers of a sulfurous-yellow color are formed on the Chinese Radermacher, which open only at night and have the aroma of carnation flowers. But at home the plant, as a rule, it does not bloom. Therefore, it is grown as a decorative leaf.

The genus Radermacher includes a dozen and a half species. It is named after the Dutch botanist J. K. M. Radermacher, who first described these species that originated from Java. A distinctive feature of these plants is the presence on the branches of many small oval thickenings, called "lentils". The leaves are doubly pinnate.

Radermacher sinica (Radermachera sinica) is the only species that is grown as a houseplant. It requires careful care so that the leaves that adorn it do not fall off. Varieties with variegated leaves, such as 'Kaprima', were also obtained. Young leaves have a very light green color, then they begin to darken from the middle. In the conditions of natural growth or in cold greenhouses, bell-shaped flowers of a sulfurous-yellow color are formed on the Chinese Radermacher, which open only at night and have the aroma of carnation flowers. But at home the plant, as a rule, it does not bloom. Therefore, it is grown as a decorative leaf.

Cultivation

During the period of active growth and development from April to September, once every 15-20 days, the Chinese Radermacher is fed with a balanced mineral fertilizer, adding it to 10-20 g per bucket of water. If the plant is kept at a temperature of about 20 °C in winter, it is not necessary to feed it.

Location

Radermacher doesn't like both highly lit and semi-shaded locations, and doesn't tolerate direct sunlight during the hottest months. It is very favorable for growth if the light falls from several sides.

Temperature

In winter, the temperature should not fall below 10-13 °C. Based on the fact that this plant tolerates heat quite well, it can be placed quite close to the battery, but in this case it is necessary to ensure more frequent spraying of the leaves with water. The optimum temperature is 20-25 °C.

Watering

Radermacher should be watered moderately, but regularly. For the correct irrigation mode, check the degree of drying of the earth by touch with your hand. The humidity of the medium is maintained by periodically (depending on the humidity of the air) spraying with water, as well as placing the pot on a tray with pebbles or expanded clay.

Transplant

This operation is performed in the spring, if the roots have completely occupied the previous pot. Use well-drained, fertile soil; the pot size should be larger than the previous one.

Care

The leaves of the plant are cleaned with a damp cloth and at the same time the dried ones are removed.

Reproduction

Radermacher can be propagated by cuttings, offspring and seeds. Cuttings are carried out in May-June, using the apical parts of shoots about 8-10 cm long. Cuttings are placed in a well-closed environment (mini-greenhouse, box covered with cellophane) with high humidity and at a temperature of 22-25 °C. Since cuttings are often not very easy to carry out at home, it is better to use offspring in spring or late summer. To do this, make a 1-2-centimeter incision on the stem (under the leaves), which is wrapped with wet moss, and cellophane on top. Periodically check that the moss is not damaged. dried up, and after the appearance of roots at the site of the incision (next spring) it is separated from the main one and planted in a 14-16-centimeter pot, and the old specimen normally resumes vegetation. Seeds are hard to come by and can be found online on the websites of companies that specialize in rare seeds.

Diseases

Aphid infestation causes yellowing of the leaves and tops of young shoots. The plant should be treated with appropriate preparations. Rotting of the roots leads the plant to death. However, this will not happen if you use light soil and avoid stagnating water in the pot.

Acquisition

Radermacher Chinese is usually available in horticultural centers with a wide range of crops. They acquire well-formed plants with glossy leaves, which are free of spots and other defects.