Merremia tuberosa
Posted: July 5th, 2013, 3:12 am
| Botanical Name | Merremia tuberosa |
| Family | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus | |
| Specie | |
| Local Name in Urdu | Does not exist |
| Common Name | Woodrose |
| Life Cycle | Perennial |
| Cultivar Name | NA |
| Category(Bush/Vine/Tree) | Liana, a vine that can climb very high |
| Height | > 30 feet |
| Spacing | NA |
| Flowering Months | Summer |
| Flower Color | Yellow, the seeds become so called "wood roses" |
| Growing Areas | So far only in Karachi |
| Frost Tender | Yes |
| Exposure | Full sunlight |
| Soil pH | No special issues |
| Propagation | By seeds |
| Uses | Highly ornamental woody flowers, dried flower shops |
| Other Details | Woodrose is a rare plant in Pakistani gardens. It belongs to the morning glory family. So far I have only seen at two places in Karachi. The plant is originally from Hawaii, but it has adapted very well to Karachi's weather. Wood rose is so called because once the yellow morning glory like yellow flowers fertilize, seeds develop in such a way that they give an image of a woody rose. The "wood rose" itself can be kept for years without any damage. Hence it is popular with florists for decoration purposes. However, gardeners should realize that it is a liana, i.e. this vine will reach the top of your house or any support it can find. It will strangle any tree in its way because of its heavy growth. Those who like to collect rare plants, wood-rose is a must. Photo image references (1.Wikipedia, 2. perosnal and 3. University of Hawaii website) |