Status:
valid
Authors:
Pax
Source:
wcs
Year:
1901
Citation Micro:
Bot. Jahrb. Syst. 28: 25 (1901)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000942980
Common Names
- Dichostemma Zenkeri
- Zenker's Orchid
- Tropical Orchid
Description
Dichostemma zenkeri (also called 'Zenker's Milkweed', among many other common names) is a perennial herb native to tropical Africa. It has oval-shaped leaves with a velvety texture and small white flowers. It is found in moist, shady forests and along streams.
Uses & Benefits
Dichostemma zenkeri is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. It is also used for its medicinal properties, such as treating fever, cough, and asthma.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Flower: The flower of Dichostemma zenkeri is white, with a yellowish-green lip. Seed: The seed of Dichostemma zenkeri is small, round and black. Seedlings: The seedlings of Dichostemma zenkeri are small and green in color.
Cultivation and Propagation
Dichostemma zenkeri can be propagated by division or by seed. It prefers a well-draining, humus-rich soil and partial shade. It is best grown in temperatures between 18-24°C (65-75°F). Water regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter. Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Where to Find Dichostemma zenkeri
Dichostemma zenkeri can be found in the tropical forests of Central and South America.
Species in the Dichostemma genus
Species in the Euphorbiaceae family
Acalypha peckoltii,
Acalypha peduncularis,
Acalypha pendula,
Acalypha perrieri,
Acalypha persimilis,
Acalypha peruviana,
Acalypha pervilleana,
Acalypha phleoides,
Acalypha phyllonomifolia,
Acalypha pilosa,
Acalypha pippenii,
Acalypha pittieri,
Acalypha platyphylla,
Acalypha pleiogyne,
Acalypha plicata,
Acalypha pohliana,
Acalypha poiretii,
Acalypha polymorpha,
Acalypha polystachya,
Acalypha portoricensis,
Acalypha pruinosa,
Acalypha pruriens,
Acalypha pseudalopecuroides,
Acalypha pseudovagans,
Acalypha psilostachya,
Acalypha pubiflora,
Acalypha pulchrespicata,
Acalypha punctata,
Acalypha purpurascens,
Acalypha purpusii,
Acalypha pycnantha,
Acalypha pygmaea,
Acalypha radians,
Acalypha radicans,
Acalypha radinostachya,
Acalypha radula,
Acalypha radula,
Acalypha rafaelensis,
Acalypha raivavensis,
Acalypha rapensis,
Acalypha reflexa,
Acalypha repanda,
Acalypha retifera,
Acalypha rhombifolia,
Acalypha rhomboidea,
Acalypha richardiana,
Acalypha riedeliana,
Acalypha rivularis,
Acalypha rottleroides,
Acalypha rubrinervis,