Exacum

Family. Gentianaceae.

Origin: East Africa. 

Description of the plant. Exacum is a small genus of biennial or annual plants, consisting of 25 species. The stems are abundantly branched, densely covered with simple, dark green, glossy, cordate or lanceolate leaves. The leaves are sessile or on very short petioles. Representatives of the genus are distinguished by abundant and prolonged flowering. Flowers are single, axillary, about 2 - 3 cm in diameter, white, pink, but more often blue and purple, with 5 petals and bright yellow stamens. The buds emit a delightful aroma. There are double varieties, the flowers of which have a large number of petals.

Height: 10 - 30 cm, grows quickly.

Caring at home

Reproduction - growing from seeds 

Exacum is easily propagated by seeds sown in early spring. It is not worth covering the seeds with soil - their germination will be weaker. The germination period is 2 - 3 weeks at a temperature of about 18 ° C. Apical cuttings.

How to care for an indoor flower 

The bush is extremely attractive and does not require special growing conditions. Pinch off wilting buds to prolong flowering. After flowering, cut the stems by half their length to maintain a neat compact shape. Take the pot outside during the warm season, placing it under protection from strong wind, direct sun and rain. The apical buds of young seedlings are pinched several times for better branching.

When does bloom? 

The flowering period is very long and can last from spring to autumn. Uniform watering and high air humidity help to prolong flowering. 

Content temperature

Exacum does not like extreme heat and prefers cool conditions - rooms with a temperature of 16-18 °C. Then provide a cool rest period at a temperature of about 15 °C. The bush should not be exposed to temperatures below 13 °C. The flowering period will be extended if you place the pot with the plant in a room with a temperature of about 15 °C.

Lighting

A brightly lit location without exposure to direct sunlight in spring and summer, during daylight hours. The more light the plants receive, the more water the exacums will require. 

Soil

This species is not picky about soil pH, but prefers slightly acidic or neutral soils. It grows well on poor soils, but will look more lush if there is enough organic matter in the soil. Very good drainage is required.

Fertilizing

Feed with water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks from the beginning of growth until flowering.

Spraying

High humidity. To increase humidity, use a tray with wet pebbles or mist the leaves in the morning. Place a room humidifier near the plant. Protect the bush from drafts.

Watering

The soil should be evenly moistened during the flowering period. At this time, exacum will not tolerate the slightest drying out. Drain excess moisture from the tray a few minutes after watering. Reduce the frequency of watering in the winter months, especially if kept in a cool place. 

Transplantation

Exacum is often discarded after flowering and does not need repotting. When grown as a perennial, repot in spring into fresh soil, choosing a slightly cramped pot.

Pests and diseases

With insufficient drainage and stagnant moisture in the soil, the leaves turn yellow and fall off. With prolonged overdrying and a lack of nutrients, the leaves turn yellow. The bush quickly withers at high air temperatures and low humidity. With a sharp change in temperature and lighting, it can shed its buds. Flowers can burn out if exposed to direct sunlight for a long time.

Among harmful insects, plants may be bothered by aphids, spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs.

Hydroponics

Not suitable for hydroponic cultivation.