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Jewels of Opar
Also known as: Fameflower, Pink baby breath
Jewels of Opar (Talinum paniculatum) is a succulent shrub species native to North and South America, as well as the Caribbean islands. After its introduction, though, it became culturally important in some East Asian regions. The jewels of Opar grows and spreads quickly because any part of its root can sprout into a full plant once it's in the soil.
Scientific classification
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Toxic to Humans
Toxicity
Weeds
Weed or not
Perennial, Annual
Lifespan
Herb
Plant Type
Spring, Summer, Fall
Bloom Time
Fall
Harvest Time
30 cm to 1 m
Plant Height
60 cm to 90 cm
Spread
Green, Blue
Leaf Color
6 mm
Flower Size
Brown, Red
Fruit Color
20 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature

Images of Jewels of Opar

Distribution of Jewels of Opar

Distribution Map
Jewels of Opar is a plant native to tropical regions of Central and South America. It has spread beyond its original range to parts of Southeast Asia, East Africa, the southern African subcontinent, and Oceania. Jewels of Opar has also been introduced in various locations throughout these continents, thriving in a diverse array of climates.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Cultivated land
Hemisphere Trend Curve

Culture

Garden Use
Jewels of Opar is a succulent subshrub characterized by vivid lime-green foliage, tiny pinkish flowers, and red berries borne on wiry stalks. It does great in rock gardens, in pots on hot, sunny decks, and in other hot areas where not much can grow.
Symbolism
Generosity, conviviality
Interesting Facts
Jewels of Opar leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. The leaves are succulent and survive better through dry weather than most salad fare, so they are popular in salads and sandwiches. The tiny seeds are also good sources of omega-3 acids. Though native to the Americas, jewels of Opar has been incorporated into traditional remedies around Asia and Africa.
Name Story
Jewels of opar: The term, jewels of Opar, is taken directly from the popular Edgar Rice Burroughs novel, Tarzan and the Jewels of Opar. Opar is a fictional city, said to be a lost colony of Atlantean people with significant wealth, to which Tarzan returns for many adventures. The queen of Opar falls in love with Tarzan, but he does not return her affection.
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Toxicity

Every part of jewels of Opar contains chemicals causing fertility issues and birth defects upon ingestion. High doses can damage the heart, spleen, and liver. Ensure small children are kept away; supervise older children around it.
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RELATED: Toxicity of Jewels of Opar

Weed Control

Jewels of Opar hails from the tropics and subtropics of Central and South America. Known to many as a troublesome weed, it has a few defining traits that contribute to its status. Firstly, jewels of Opar is a prolific breeder, producing a multitude of seeds that can lay dormant in the soil for extended periods, aiding its survival in adverse conditions. Secondly, it can quickly colonize disturbed ground, outcompeting native plants by forming dense clusters of its succulent, glossy green leaves. This overgrowth not only deteriorates the aesthetic appeal of a garden but also hogs resources, causing harm to other plants. Its invasive qualities are particularly problematic in gardens with favorable growing conditions, where it spreads rapidly and proves challenging to control. Jewels of Opar primarily propagates through seed dispersal, fueled by its distinctive, profuse pink summer blooms. These seemingly pretty seed heads pop open when mature, sending seeds flying to start new unwanted colonies in new areas. Thus, this plant's spread can be hard to restrict.
How to Control It
The best season for the removal of jewels of Opar is in the early spring, before the plant reaches the flowering stage. Below are some organic methods for its removal or control.
  1. Hand Pulling: Don a pair of gloves, grasp the stem of the plant firmly, and gently pull. Ensure to remove the entire root to prevent future growth.
  2. Solarization: first, water the infested area thoroughly. Then, cover the area with a transparent plastic sheet, securing the edges. The heat from the sun will kill off the jewels of Opar over a period of one to two months.
  3. Vinegar Spray: Create a mixture of one part vinegar to one part water. Spray this directly onto the jewels of Opar during the heat of the day. The vinegar will burn the plant and cause it to die. Ensure not to spray on desired plants.
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Care Guide for Jewels of Opar

Every week
Water
Partial sun
Sunlight
20 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Garden Soil
Soil Type
Water: Originating from tropical regions, jewels of Opar thrives in consistently moist environments and prefers weekly watering. This outdoor plant excels in warm conditions, effectively absorbing water during its growing season, making it ideal for gardeners seeking vibrant foliage with minimal watering concerns.
Propagation: Jewels of Opar propagates optimally in Spring through its tubers. Success is marked by root development and new leaf growth. Use moist, well-draining soil to achieve the best results.
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