Also known as Ground Pineapple
Thonningia (Thonningia sanguinea) is a unique holoparasitic plant found in tropical Africa, known for its subterranean tubers and unusual flowering habit.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-draining
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost and cold drafts.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength monthly during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Thonningia sanguinea prefers consistently moist soil but dislikes waterlogged conditions. Water thoroughly when the top centimeter of soil feels dry. Reduce watering during cooler periods or if the plant is dormant.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, especially in containers.
Prune Thonningia sanguinea lightly after flowering to maintain a desired shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or leggy stems.
Pinching back the tips of young plants can promote a more compact and attractive form. Avoid heavy pruning.
Propagation is typically done by stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix.
Keep the cuttings moist and warm, and they should root within a few weeks. Division of established clumps is also possible.
Repot Thonningia sanguinea every two to three years, or when it becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and compost.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid excessive moisture retention.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Thonningia (Thonningia sanguinea)
Where Thonningia (Thonningia sanguinea) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Santalales |
| Family | Balanophoraceae |
| Genus | Thonningia |
| Species | Thonningia sanguinea |
Similar in genus Thonningia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
