As a common ornamental plant, Red Cicada Flower is popular for its bright colors and beautiful posture. However, its toxicity makes many people worried, and some even fear it may affect the indoor environment. Is Red Cicada Flower toxic? Can it be grown indoors? Today, we will explore these questions together.
What is Red Cicada Flower?
Red Cicada Flower, also known as Golden Lotus or Kapok, is a variety of the bean family plant Spatholobus suberectus. Its flowers are funnel-shaped, brightly colored, usually red or orange. The flowering period of Red Cicada Flower is long, generally from June to October, during which its beautiful blooming posture can be seen.
Is Red Cicada Flower toxic?
Red Cicada Flower contains a toxic substance called golden lotus alkaloid, which mainly exists in the flowers, leaves, and roots of the plant. Golden lotus alkaloid belongs to natural plant toxins and has irritant effects, but excessive doses can cause poisoning reactions.
How severe is the toxicity of Red Cicada Flower?
The toxicity of Red Cicada Flower is not very strong; it mainly manifests as irritation to the skin and mucous membranes. After contact with Red Cicada Flower, the skin may experience itching, redness, blisters, and other symptoms, and severe cases may even have allergic reactions. However, as long as an appropriate distance is maintained and direct contact is avoided, it will not affect the human body.
How to reduce the toxicity of Red Cicada Flower?
To reduce the toxicity of Red Cicada Flower, the best way is to avoid direct contact. When watering, trimming, and other operations, wear protective measures such as gloves and masks to prevent accidental contact with the plant. At the same time, when choosing plants, pay attention to the toxicity of Red Cicada Flower and avoid letting children and pets come into contact with them.
Care Tips for Red Cicada Flower
Red Cicada Flower does not have high environmental requirements; it likes warm and humid climates and needs sufficient sunlight. When caring for Red Cicada Flower, pay attention to the following points:
Temperature
The suitable growth temperature for Red Cicada Flower is 18-26 degrees Celsius. Temperatures that are too high or too low will adversely affect its growth. Especially in winter, be sure to keep it warm.
Water
Red Cicada Flower likes a moist environment, but it cannot be too wet, otherwise it is easy to cause root rot. Pay attention to controlling the amount and frequency of water when watering to avoid overwatering.
Fertilizer
Red Cicada Flower grows fast and needs sufficient nutrients. You can apply fertilizer once a month, and it is better to choose compound fertilizers containing nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other elements.
Soil
Red Cicada Flower prefers fertile soil with good drainage. When planting, choose soil with fine texture and good air permeability, and ensure good drainage.
Can it be grown indoors?
Red Cicada Flower can be grown indoors, but pay attention to ventilation and sufficient light. The best way is to choose positions near balconies or windows to ensure that the plant gets enough sunlight and air.
Potted Cultivation Method
When potting Red Cicada Flower, you can choose a deeper pot to allow the roots more space to grow. When repotting, be careful not to damage the roots and avoid harming the plant.
Propagation Methods
Red Cicada Flower can be propagated by sowing, cuttings, etc. Sowing requires selecting the appropriate season and soil, while cuttings require attention to the length of the cuttings and the depth of the insertion holes.
How to Handle Pruning Issues
Red Cicada Flower needs regular pruning to maintain its beautiful posture. When pruning, pay attention to choosing the right timing and method to avoid adverse effects on the plant.
How to Deal with Pest Problems
Red Cicada Flower is susceptible to some pests such as aphids and whiteflies. When pests are found, appropriate insecticides or fungicides can be used for treatment, but pay attention to dosage and frequency to avoid adverse effects on the plant.
In conclusion, Red Cicada Flower contains certain toxicity, but as long as appropriate distance is maintained and direct contact is avoided, it will not affect the human body. When caring for Red Cicada Flower, pay attention to controlling factors such as temperature, water, fertilizer, and soil, and choose an appropriate environment for placement. Hope this article can provide you with some help in caring for Red Cicada Flower.
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