Connarus ruber

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Connarus ruber
Connarus ruber
Connarus ruber
Taxonomy
Family Connaraceae · Genus Connarus
Context
nativeRegion
Tropical rainforests of South America, especially the Amazon basin.
usdaZones
10–12
companionPlants
Anthurium spp., Calathea spp., Philodendron spp.
culturalUses
Used locally for medicinal purposes and occasionally as an ornamental in tropical collections.

Care

Care Requirements

LightPrefers partial shade to filtered sunlight; avoid full midday sun.
WateringKeep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; moderate watering frequency.
SoilThrives in well-draining, loamy soil rich in organic matter.
FertilizerApply balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
HumidityPrefers high humidity; mist regularly if kept indoors or in dry climates.
TemperatureOptimal temperatures are warm, generally 18–28°C (64–82°F); not frost-tolerant.

Growth & Life Cycle

HabitEvergreen shrub or small tree with dense foliage.
Mature SizeTypically reaches 2–6 meters in height.
Growth RateModerate growth rate under ideal conditions.
BloomingProduces panicles of small, fragrant, red to pinkish flowers seasonally.
DormancyNo pronounced dormancy; may slow growth in cooler months.

Propagation

MethodsSeeds, Semi-hardwood cuttings
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer for both seed and cutting propagation.

Maintenance & Notes

PruningMinimal pruning required; trim to remove dead or crossing branches after flowering.
RepottingYoung plants benefit from repotting every 2–3 years as they outgrow containers.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally resilient, but may attract scale insects or fungal leaf spots in overly humid, stagnant conditions.
ToxicityNo significant toxicity reported for humans or pets.

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