Also known as Hausa Name : Gogamasu · Small Squareweed
Mitracarpus hirtus, commonly known as Tropical Girdlepod, is a low-growing herbaceous plant native to tropical America, often found in disturbed areas and lawns.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate to High
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow topsoil to dry between waterings, avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-25°C; protect from frost.
Low to Moderate
50% intensity
Feed monthly during growth with diluted balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently, allowing the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. This plant prefers moist conditions but dislikes waterlogged roots.
Reduce watering slightly during cooler months to prevent root rot, ensuring adequate drainage.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, and to encourage bushier growth. Remove spent flowers and any dead or leggy stems.
Light pruning can be done anytime, but heavier pruning is best performed in early spring before the main growth spurt.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 4-6 inch cuttings in spring or summer, remove lower leaves, and dip in rooting hormone. Plant in a well-draining potting mix and keep consistently moist and warm.
Roots typically form within a few weeks.
Repot every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one.
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of potting soil, perlite, and sand, to ensure good aeration.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Tropical Girdlepod (Mitracarpus hirtus)
Where Tropical Girdlepod (Mitracarpus hirtus) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Mitracarpus |
| Species | Mitracarpus hirtus |
Similar in genus Mitracarpus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
