Oncostema elongata — a medium houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Oncostema elongata

Oncostema Elongata

Updated · 25 observations
ON THIS PLANT
A note from PlantMom

Portuguese squill is fairly disease-resistant and typically does not suffer from illnesses. Still, it can be vulnerable to pests and the diseases found in its environment. When infections do occur, they are generally mild. Regarding upkeep, this plant needs a moderate amount of care. It should be pruned on a regular basis to preserve its appearance and support healthy growth. Applying fertilizer can also assist in encouraging blooms. Portuguese squill is well suited for anyone who has an outdoor area, like a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive gardening experience. It may need extra attention if cultivated indoors.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Oncostema Elongata.

Light

Portuguese squill grows best in a location that receives a consistent amount of sunlight throughout the day, which is essential for its healthy development. It can also do well in areas where light is variable. However, prolonged low light and excessive exposure can both have a detrimental effect on its growth.

Temperature

Portuguese squill is native to a climate where temperatures range from 59 to 95 °F (15 to 35 ℃). It does best in those conditions, so to grow it in other climates you should modify the temperature to replicate them, especially across different seasons.

Fertilizer

The primary time to fertilize Portuguese squill is in early spring, when the flowers are beginning to form. Using an appropriate fertilizer promotes stronger blooms and helps Portuguese squill produce attractive flowers. Fertilizing at that early-spring stage supports excellent flowering during the season and supplies energy for dormant growth phases.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Oncostema
Family
Asparagaceae
Hardiness Zone
7-10
Mature Height
10 cm to 25 cm
Mature Spread
15 cm to 20 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
Blue, Purple
Flower Size
1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
Bloom Time
Mid spring, Late spring
Planting Time
Spring
Harvest Time
Early summer, Mid summer
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Portuguese Squill en Cuban lily en Peruvian jacinth en Hyacinth-of-Peru en Peruvian squill
PLATES
Oncostema elongata flower
PLATE 01 · flower
Oncostema elongata flower
PLATE 02 · flower
Oncostema elongata habit
PLATE 03 · habit
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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