Ochna
Family. Ochnaceae.
Origin. South Africa.
Description. The genus Ochna consists of approximately 80 species of ornamental perennial shrubs or small trees. Narrow, dense leaves from 7 to 12 cm long are arranged alternately and can be oblong or elliptical, glossy, green. The leaf blade has small teeth along the edge. The flowers are yellow, with 5 petals, 4 - 5 cm in diameter and very fragrant. After flowering, the plant retains bright red sepals and seeds.
Height. 60 - 90 cm, grows slowly.
Ochna - care at home
Temperature conditions
During the growing season, normal room temperature is suitable; in winter, a cool dormant period with a temperature of 5 to 10 ° C is required.
Lighting
Can grow in partial shade, but it is better to place it in a well-lit place. Bright green leaves are a sign of sufficient lighting. If the leaves become dark green, the bush does not have enough light, if the leaves become reddish, there is too much light.
Care
A relatively easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Regular pruning helps to form a dense, branched tree with many flowers.
Substrate
The soil should be fibrous and consist of pine bark, sphagnum moss, coconut fibers with the addition of coarse sand with a pH of 5.6 to 7.5.
Feeding
Most modern hybrids grow continuously all year round and are also fed at any time of the year. For fertilizing, use fertilizers intended for orchids, diluting them to half the recommended dose. During the growing season you can feed 2 times a month.
Flowering time
Flowers appear from late spring to early summer. Under optimal growing conditions, the flowering and fruiting period can last throughout the year.
Air humidity
If the indoor air becomes too dry, use a room humidifier or place the plant on a tray with damp pebbles.
Soil moisture
Water moderately, drying the soil to a depth of 5 - 7 cm between waterings. In winter, when the plant is kept cool, reduce the frequency of watering.
Transplant
Adult plants are transplanted every 2 - 3 years into fresh soil in the spring.
Reproduction
Seeds that germinate easily or semi-ripe cuttings. Young plants are kept at a temperature not lower than 25° C.
Pests and diseases
Of the harmful insects, the main danger to the flower is mealybugs and thrips.