Overview
Macleania insignis is a plant with a bushy habit in the genus Macleania, part of the Ericaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Macleania insignis grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include conservatory, greenhouse and houseplant.
About
Macleania insignis is a species of flowering plant in the blueberry family, Ericaceae. The family Ericaceae is spread across the world, with a large concentration found in South America. The Psammisia II section shares the closest common ancestor to this plant, and its closest split on a family tree is shared with Macleania coccoloboides and Macleania bullata. Phylogenic classification of M. insignis has primarily been carried out through an examination of morphological traits as well as genetic analysis. In the wild it grows across Belize, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico Gulf and other regions. Grow it in full sun and loam soil. In UK gardens it needs tropical warmth and glass protection in the UK (RHS H1a). It works well for conservatory, greenhouse and houseplant. It tolerates acid soils, moist but well-drained conditions and south-facing aspects. Plant in well-drained soil in a suitable position. Water during establishment.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Macleania insignis
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Macleania
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1a
Plant details
Macleania insignis size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Conservatory, greenhouse, houseplant
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Macleania insignis
- Propagation
- Seed, cuttings, grafts, layers
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to aphids, glasshouse red spider mite
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Macleania insignis?
Macleania insignis prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Macleania insignis need?
Macleania insignis grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Macleania insignis hardy in the UK?
Macleania insignis has an RHS hardiness rating of H1a, meaning it needs tropical warmth above 15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Macleania insignis?
Seed, cuttings, grafts, layers.