Araujia sericifera aka White Bladderflower

Taxonomy

Genus Araujia Family Apocynaceae Order Gentianales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Araujia sericifera, also known as moth plant, white bladderflower, common moth vine, cruel vine, and false choko, is a perennial vining plant in the genus Araujia, of the family Apocynaceae. It was described in 1817 by the Portuguese botanist Félix de Avelar Brotero and is native to South America. The plant has attractive and abundant fragrant flowering, making it a specimen worth cultivating, but its strong robustness combined with high seed production can make it invasive in certain environments, such as California and South Africa. However, it is not invasive in France due to its sensitivity to frost. The plant is a creeping vine that can climb up to 5–7 metres (16–23 ft) high and has opposite, dark green, glossy, triangular leaves with entire margins, about 10–12 centimetres (3.9–4.7 in) long. When broken, it releases a milky, smelly exudate. The fast-growing vines can cover a tree canopy in two or three years, competing with the tree for light, water, and nutrients. They damage trees by this competition and by twining so tightly around their branches that it girdles them. Araujia sericifera will germinate from seeds in 3 to 6 weeks and prefers moderate, moist soil. It can be grown as a tender annual or as a container plant in most zones. Over winter, keep this plant in a bright, cool location. Despite its invasive tendencies, it remains a popular ornamental plant and is also known as Araujia hortorum, which is in more frequent use in New Zealand.

Common names

White Bladderflower, Peruvian Creeper, Moth Catcher

How to care for White Bladderflower

Difficulty

White Bladderflower presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

White Bladderflower should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

White Bladderflower thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Moth Catcher.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Region of origin

White Bladderflower’s native range is S. America - Brazil and Peru. Naturalized in S.W. Europe.

More info:
Wikipedia

More Species in Araujia Genus

Araujia sericifera White Bladderflower