Moth Plant Araujia sericifera
ABOUT
The plant known commonly as moth plant is a perennial vine distinguished by its twining stems that latch onto surrounding structures and plants for support. Its foliage is heart-shaped with a glossy green surface, offering a lush, dense canopy. The blossoms of the moth plant are notably attractive, with a creamy white to pale pink hue, often marked by intricate, subtle patterns and possessing a balloon-like structure before they fully open into bell-shaped flowers. These blossoms are not just known for their visual appeal but also for their ability to emit a strong, sweet fragrance that is particularly noticeable in the evening. Following the flowering phase, the plant produces elongated, chalice-like fruits that house numerous seeds, each of which is attached to a silky thread akin to a tuft of cotton. This characteristic has given rise to its other name, as these silky threads are reminiscent of the craft material. These seed pods, when mature, split open to release the seeds, which can then be carried by the wind, facilitating the widespread dispersal of the plant. The beauty of the moth plant can be deceiving, as behind its charming appearance hides its capacity to become invasive due to its vigorous growth and efficient seed dispersal mechanism.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Apocynaceae.
Synonyms
Moth Plant, Cruel Plant, White Bladderflower, False Choko, Araujia, Milkweed Vine.
Common names
Araujia albens, Araujia hortorum, Araujia sericifolia, Physianthus albens.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name of Araujia sericifera is moth plant. The toxicity of moth plant to humans includes the presence of toxic glycosides. If ingested, parts of the plant, especially the seeds, can cause symptoms like gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The milky sap can also irritate the skin and eyes upon contact. It is important to avoid ingesting any part of the plant, and wearing gloves when handling it is advisable to prevent skin irritation.
To pets
The common name of Araujia sericifera is moth plant. Moth plant is toxic to pets due to the presence of toxic glycosides. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling if they ingest any part of the plant, particularly the seeds. The milky sap of the plant can cause dermatitis and eye irritation as well. It is critical to prevent pets from ingesting this plant and to seek veterinary care if poisoning is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
16 feet (4.88 meters)
Spread
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
South America
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Araujia sericifera, also known as moth plant, is often used for decorative purposes due to its attractive flowers and heart-shaped leaves.
- Environmental adaptation: The moth plant is highly adaptable to various environments, making it easy to cultivate in a wide range of conditions.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering.
- Rapid growth: The plant tends to grow quickly, which can be advantageous for covering trellises, fences, or other structures in a short period of time.
- Wildlife support: The flowers of the moth plant can provide nectar for certain moth species and other pollinators.
Medical Properties- Emetic - Araujia sericifera has been historically used to induce vomiting.
- Purgative - It has also been employed as a strong purgative in traditional medicine, though it is considered dangerous.
- Vermifuge - The seeds of the plant have been used to expel parasitic worms.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Araujia sericifera, commonly known as moth plant, can be utilized as a source of natural rubber; its latex has been studied as a potential alternative to traditional rubber sources.
- The strong, silky fibers from the seed pods of the moth plant have been used traditionally for making fishing nets and other woven materials due to their durability.
- The sap from moth plant can be applied to remove warts and corns, though such uses should be approached with caution due to potential skin irritation.
- Some cultures use the sap of the moth plant as a natural adhesive due to its sticky nature when it dries.
- Moth plant can be used in the craft industry for making models, due to the light and sturdy nature of its dried seed pods.
- The vine's ability to grow rapidly and create dense foliage makes it useful for creating living privacy screens in gardens.
- In some regions, moth plant is planted to provide shade over pergolas and patios because of its broad leaves and thick growth.
- The flowers of the moth plant, due to their fragrance, might be harvested for the production of scented oils or perfumes.
- Its milky latex has been used as a natural polish for wooden furniture, giving it a shine and added protection.
- The stems of the moth plant can be used as a natural binding material for gardening purposes, such as staking plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe moth plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe moth plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Invasiveness: Araujia sericifera, commonly known as Moth Plant, is considered an invasive species in many regions, symbolizing the ability to dominate and spread in unfamiliar environments.
- Resilience: Its vigorous growth habit and resistance to many types of control methods reflect a symbolic meaning of resilience and endurance.
- Deception: The Moth Plant's flowers are designed to trap pollinators such as moths for pollination purposes, which can symbolize deceit or entrapment.
- Persistence: The tenacity of the Moth Plant to thrive and reappear even after attempts to remove it symbolizes persistence and the idea of clinging to life or a place.
WaterThe Moth Plant, commonly known as Araujia sericifera, should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not saturated. During the active growing season, in spring and summer, water the plant once a week with approximately one to two gallons of water, depending on the size of the plant and the heat of the climate. Reduce watering in the fall and winter, providing water every other week or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water as it can lead to root rot.
LightThe Moth Plant prefers a position in full sun to partial shade, thriving in bright, indirect light. For the best growth, place the plant in a spot where it receives at least six hours of sunlight daily. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can inhibit flowering and cause the plant to become leggy.
TemperatureThe Moth Plant fares well in temperatures between 50°F and 85°F, making it suitable for growth in many climates. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 30°F for short periods but is not frost-hardy. The ideal temperature range for this plant is within 70°F to 80°F during its active growing season.
PruningPruning the Moth Plant is essential to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. It should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead or damaged stems and cut back as needed to control its size and encourage bushier growth. Pruning can be performed annually or biennially depending on the plant's size.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMoth Plant prefers a loamy, well-draining soil mix with a pH ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. Enrich the soil with organic matter to support its growth.
RepottingMoth Plant should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container, to refresh the soil and provide more space for roots.
Humidity & MistingMoth Plant tolerates a range of humidity levels but thrives best in moderate to high humidity, avoiding excessively dry air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and avoid cold drafts for Moth Plant.
Outdoor
Moth Plant needs full sun to partial shade and protected space from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
Life cycleThe common name for Araujia sericifera is Moth Plant. It starts its life as a seed, which upon germination, develops into a seedling. As it grows, it forms a vigorous twining vine, which can extend several meters in length, clinging to supports and other plants. The plant then matures and produces clusters of fragrant, white to pinkish flowers during the warmer months, which are pollinated by insects such as bees and moths. Following pollination, the plant produces distinctive large green pods that resemble choko, which contain numerous seeds with silky tufts allowing for wind dispersal. The cycle repeats when these seeds germinate in suitable conditions, with the plant being capable of both sexual reproduction through seeds and vegetative propagation.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter
Propogation: The most popular method of propagation for Araujia sericifera, commonly known as moth plant or cruel vine, is by seed. Typically, seeds are collected from the ripe pods in late summer to autumn when they start to split open. Once collected, the seeds can be sown immediately or stored in a cool, dry place until the following spring. When planting, the seeds should be placed in a well-draining soil mix, covered lightly with soil, and kept moist until germination which usually occurs within two to four weeks. It's important to provide adequate light and warmth during this stage to ensure successful propagation. Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly outdoors if the conditions are suitable.
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