Spanish shawl (Heterotis rotundifolia)

Spanish shawl

Spanish shawl (Heterotis rotundifolia) is a tropical perennial shrub that produces five-petaled flowers of a bright violet color. It is a popular decorative garden plant, suitable for ground cover or as a hanging basket trailing plant. The plant thrives in full sun or slight shade. 'Rotundiflora" means round-flowered in Latin and refers to the plant's almost circular petals.

Scientific classification

Species

Spanish shawl (Heterotis rotundifolia)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

15 cm to 30 cm

Plant Height

4 cm

Flower Size

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Spanish shawl

Distribution of Spanish shawl

Distribution Map

Spanish shawl is a plant with a native presence mainly in Central and Western Africa. It has been introduced across various continents, enhancing its presence in parts of South America, South and Southeast Asia, as well as in some Pacific and Caribbean islands. In some regions like West Africa, spanish shawl is sometimes thought to be invasive and may have an impact on local ecosystems, although such instances are localized.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Cultivated land

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Spanish shawl

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Spanish shawl thrives in tropical climates, needing consistent moisture and weekly watering for optimal health. Although moderately drought-tolerant, it requires regular hydration, especially in cooler months. As an evergreen, spanish shawl retains foliage year-round, necessitating attention to humidity levels indoors.

Fertilize: For spanish shawl, use a high phosphorus fertilizer to promote flowering. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer monthly during growth and bi-monthly in dormancy, at half the recommended rate. Ensure even soil penetration and avoid residue on leaves to enhance growth and vigor.

Pruning: Spanish shawl features vibrant purple-pink flowers and requires early to late spring pruning to shape and encourage growth. Trim dead stems and thin dense areas for air circulation, using clean tools to avoid shock. Regular pruning promotes prolific blooming and maintains a lush appearance.

Propagation: Spanish shawl thrives with proper propagation, primarily through cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems, ensuring each has a node. Use a well-draining medium like coarse sand or perlite, maintaining moisture without waterlogging. Once rooted, pot in suitable soil for robust growth.

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Images of Spanish shawl

Distribution of Spanish shawl

Care Guide for Spanish shawl

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