Embothrium

Family. Proteaceae.

Origin: Argentina, Chile. 

Description. The genus consists of 6-8 plant species, among which there are both trees and shrubs, evergreen and deciduous specimens. The plant has highly branched shoots that form a lush crown. The leaves are green, simple, 5-10 cm long, oblong-lanceolate, with a pronounced central vein. During the flowering period, embothrium decorates itself with large bright brushes bearing a large number of red or orange, less often white or yellow, tubular flowers. 

Height. In nature it reaches 20 m., in indoor culture the height can be controlled by pruning.

Care at home

Temperature conditions

In spring and summer, when the tree is actively developing, it is kept at normal room temperature. In winter months, a dormant period at a temperature of 4 - 10° C is desirable.

Lighting

It loves the sun and should be placed in a well-lit place with some shade on summer days.

Care

Embothrium may shed their leaves in the fall. Formative pruning and crown shaping should be done in the spring, before growth begins. If possible, take the bush outside during the warmer months.

Substrate

Moderately nutritious and well-drained soil with an acidic pH.

Feeding

From spring to autumn, fertilizing is carried out every 2 weeks.

Flowering time

May - June, flowering is long, but occurs only under good maintenance conditions.

Air humidity

Tolerates dry air in residential areas well. 

Soil moisture

Watering should be economical even during the growth period. Dry the soil a few centimeters deep between waterings. In winter, watering is reduced to a minimum. Adult specimens are drought-resistant. For watering, use softened bottled or rainwater. 

Transplantation

Repot plants in spring into larger pots every 2 years. Replace the topsoil of larger potted plants if repotting is difficult.

Reproduction

Most often propagated by seeds, as vegetative propagation using stem cuttings is not always successful. Seeds are sown in spring. The germination period takes 1 - 2 months.

Pests and diseases

Root rot. Infected parts of the plant, including the roots, are cut off and replanted in fresh soil.