Uncarina is a genus of plants in the family Pedaliaceae. Originating in Madagascar, the deciduous shrubs may sometimes be considered small trees, growing to 25 feet (7.6 m) tall. The leaves are oval and green, and the flowers are bell-shaped and tubular. Uncarinas bloom easily, and they are a striking sight when covered with flowers. The seed capsules feature small hooked harpoons.
About 15 species are in cultivation. Flowers are in three colors: red, white, and yellow. The latter is the most common. Only one species has a true caudex, Uncarina roeoesliana. It is also the easiest one to flower and can already bloom when still small. The rarest is Uncarina leptocarpa, the only white-flowering species.
Growing Conditions
Light: These heat-resistant plants do best when grown in part shade to full sun.
Temperature: Uncarinas are tender and cannot tolerate temperatures below 35°F (2 °C). If grown outdoors, they will probably regrow from the roots if frozen. They are quite heat-tolerant.
Water: Water abundantly when actively growing and keep dry when dormant.
Soil: Uncarinas needs rich, very well-drained potting soil.
Fertilizer: Use diluted fertilizer on young plants to speed up growth.
Grower's Tips
One reason Uncarinas are not commonly cultivated is that their seeds do not germinate easily. Cuttings are not a substitute because they don't root easily either. In short, they are difficult plants to propagate.
But once you have one, they are relatively easy to grow. They need plenty of warmth and water in the growing season, but keep them dry in the winter. They can grow up to 25 feet (7.6 m) in the wild, but do not expect that in your greenhouse or windowsill.
Links
- Back to genus Uncarina
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus