Rotheca alata is a scrambling shrub native to tropical Africa, known for its attractive foliage and clusters of delicate flowers, often with a shrubby to scandent habit.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light.
75% intensity
Can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid intense afternoon sun.
Regular watering, allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist during growth, reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Average room temperatures.
50% intensity
Ideal temperatures are between 18-24°C; protect from frost.
Feed during growing season.
50% intensity
Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks from spring to summer.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Rotheca alata regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during its active growing season.
Reduce watering in winter, allowing the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune Rotheca alata in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to maintain a desirable shape and encourage bushier growth.
Light pruning can be done throughout the year to manage size.
Propagate Rotheca alata from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Select healthy shoots, cut them into sections of 10-15 cm, and remove lower leaves.
Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and insert into a well-draining potting mix. Keep moist and warm.
Repot young Rotheca alata plants annually in spring. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix and a pot only slightly larger than the current one.
Water thoroughly after repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Rotheca Alata (Rotheca alata)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Rotheca |
| Species | Rotheca alata |
Similar in genus Rotheca
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
