Status:
valid
Authors:
L.O.Williams
Source:
wcs
Year:
1941
Citation Micro:
Bot. Mus. Leafl. 9: 38 (1941)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000942990
Common Names
- Vernicosa Dickasonia
- Varnished Dickasonia
- Vernicosa-Shaped Dickasonia
Description
Dickasonia vernicosa (also called 'Varnish 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
Dickasonia vernicosa is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. It is also used as a medicinal plant to treat various ailments such as fever, cold, cough, and headaches.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Flower: The flower of Dickasonia vernicosa is white, with a yellowish-green lip. Seed: The seed of Dickasonia vernicosa is small, round and black. Seedlings: The seedlings of Dickasonia vernicosa are small and green in color.
Cultivation and Propagation
Dickasonia vernicosa 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 Dickasonia vernicosa
Dickasonia vernicosa can be found in the tropical forests of Central and South America.
Species in the Dickasonia genus
Species in the Orchidaceae family
Aa fiebrigii,
Aa hartwegii,
Aa hieronymi,
Aa leucantha,
Aa lorentzii,
Aa macra,
Aa achalensis,
Aa maderoi,
Aa mandonii,
Aa matthewsii,
Aa microtidis,
Aa paleacea,
Aa argyrolepis,
Aa riobambae,
Aa rosei,
Aa schickendanzii,
Aa sphaeroglossa,
Aa trilobulata,
Aa weddelliana,
Aa aurantiaca,
Aa calceata,
Aa colombiana,
Aa denticulata,
Aa erosa,
Aa figueroi,
Aa lozanoi,
Aa lehmannii,
Acampe carinata,
Acampe cephalotes,
Acampe ochracea,
Acampe pachyglossa,
Acampe praemorsa,
Acampe joiceyana,
Acampe hulae,
Acanthophippium bicolor,
Acanthophippium chrysoglossum,
Acanthophippium curtisii,
Acanthophippium eburneum,
Acanthophippium gougahense,
Acanthophippium javanicum,
Acanthophippium lilacinum,
Acanthophippium mantinianum,
Acanthophippium parviflorum,
Acanthophippium pictum,
Acanthophippium splendidum,
Acanthophippium striatum,
Acanthophippium sylhetense,
Acanthophippium curtisii,
Achlydosa glandulosa,
Acianthera aculeata,