What is the name of the dollar flower. Dollar tree: flowering, flower photo, plant description, care features, tips from experienced flower growers

Zamioculcas (Zamioculcas), also called the dollar tree, grows in East Africa and on the island of Madagascar. This is a perennial plant that is grown in an apartment or house for interior decoration. We will tell you about how to grow zamiokulkas and care for this plant in this article.

The plant is very decorative and, with good care at home, grows to 0.8 m in height. It is a perennial, but its life span is relatively short - only 5-10 years. His homeland is a land with a hot climate and high humidity, but at home he is unpretentious and manages with minimal care.

Zamioculcas is a rather large flower, it is distinguished by long upright glossy leaves on the same long petioles. At home, it has been grown since the 90s of the last century, it gained popularity after the Dutch nurseries introduced the first species of the plant.

The appearance of Zamioculcas resembles that of its closest relatives: callas, monstera and dieffenbachia. Among the people, this plant received a special name, a dollar or money tree, the origin of which cannot be explained.

How does the dollar tree bloom?

Zamiokulkas flowering at home is a rare occurrence. By the way, in wildlife, the plant practically does not bloom. Flowers of any kind of Zamioculcas are quite unusual. Male and female are located separately on the cob, and between them is a strip of sterile flowers.

This structure prevents self-pollination. The structure of the flower is due to the natural growth zone of Zamioculcas, the succulent is pollinated by wind and small insects. Probably, it is for this reason that the cobs-inflorescences are located in the lower part of the bush no higher than 20 cm above the ground.

After flowering, berries with seeds appear, but at home they never ripen. Some experienced gardeners note that the flowering of a plant is directly related to its location in the house. On the north window sill, the dollar tree will bloom in adulthood. And putting a small bush of zamiokulkas on the southern window, expect an early flowering.

Follow the flowering stages of an old plant. If it produces inflorescences, but does not produce new stems, then it is worth considering cutting it in order to propagate younger trees.

Signs and superstitions: a flower of celibacy or female happiness?

Zamioculcas is simply surrounded by various myths and superstitions. Maybe the reason for this strange bloom? For example, he was called the flower of celibacy, but this does not mean at all that a woman who breeds zamiokulkas will never marry.

If a woman bought it herself, then her personal life will not stick. And if she was presented with a small zamiokulkas sprout, good luck in love is guaranteed. You already flowering plant? You can start sewing a wedding dress. Zamioculcas helps to get married, and ficus helps to conceive a baby.

The value of plant content for women and men

According to Feng Shui, the magical properties of a flower increase a hundred times if it was presented on a special day: birthday, New Year, Nativity. It is also useful for career growth, material wealth and health, its presence in the house - to money and well-being.

There is a belief that a flower feels an attitude towards itself and thanks its mistress or owner with the positive energy of good luck.

The plant that was given to you should be transplanted immediately, this will positively affect the attraction of money. Drainage must be made at the bottom of the pot, and some gardeners use coins instead of expanded clay. They say that in this way the plant is tuned to make a profit.

Of course, it cannot be said that this is correct or useful for a flower, because coins can react with water, fertilizer.

Types of Zamioculcas: description and pictures

Varieties of the money tree entered the flower shops of Europe about 15 years ago and over the years of their popularity have retained the status of an expensive plant. Scientists are developing new varieties of zamiokulkas, for example, a small bush that does not grow above 60 cm. Therefore, it is difficult to name the exact figure for the number of plant species.

Zamioculcas zamielifolia

Zamioculcas of the Zamie-leaved species is a plant similar to the Zamii, which is why it got its name. The type of zamiokulkas zamielisty is unusual. This is a succulent whose trunk is hidden in the soil. In the first weeks of life, it has no roots, and moisture reserves are stored in a large tuber under a layer of soil. But the bright green leaves of the plant look out of the pot, and it seems that they grow straight from the ground.

Petioles of leaflets are strongly developed, and they are often mistaken for a trunk. They grow up to 1 m in height, the leaves are tightly pressed against each other and resemble a rosette.

This variety is ideal for home growing and interior decoration. Having bought zamiokulkas, in a few years you can get several new bushes with the help of cuttings, dividing an adult bush or leaf cuttings.

Note that the cultivation of this variety can even be profitable, because the smallest plant of 20-30 cm costs about 500 rubles, the higher it is, the more expensive.

Variegated zamiokulkas: landing rules

The variegated variety is a real rarity and curiosity, so it is very popular. A small sprout of zamiokulkas consists of 4 leaves and a large tuber, but there are no live roots on it yet.

It is planted in universal soil, to which 2 parts are poured. Drainage is laid out at the bottom of the pot, expanded clay, for example, the remaining soil is poured, a small process of zamiokulkas is placed and the rest of the soil is poured out.

The variegated variety does not like water overflow, so lightly spray the soil with a spray bottle - droplets of water are better for the plant than watering from a cup. That's all, now send the plant to the south window and wait. After about a week, the first roots can be seen through the drainage.

If you planted a small zamiokulkas tuber with leaves in the fall, then by spring the first buds will appear, then each of them will grow into a chic branch. We will talk about further care rules a little later.

Zamifolia Zamioculcas

Zamioculcas zamifoliya (such an unpronounceable name) is the most that neither is a dollar tree. It is believed that this variety will bring the greatest success in making money. Naturally, there is no scientific justification for this popular theory.

Even if Zamioculcas Zamifolia does not bring success, you will get a wonderful ornamental plant. Green leaves, fleshy petioles - a real photo, not a flower! Like other species of this family, it is a succulent.

Reproduction of Zamioculcas: from a small sprout to an adult plant

Zamiokulkas is propagated in 3 ways:

1. Division of the bush.
2. Cutting sheets.
3. Simple cutting.

The fact is that it is impossible to get the seeds of this exotic plant anywhere. At home, they do not ripen, and they may not be sold intentionally in stores, because the cost of the smallest zamiokulkas is high.

In principle, all parts of a plant, from shoots to leaves, can be used to propagate a plant. The main thing is to learn how to do it right.

Beware, the flower is poisonous!

The plant that we will now learn to transplant belongs to the aroid family, and its juice contains poison. Of course, it is impossible to get a fatal burn from a flower, but in places of contact with a bare cut on a leaf, the skin will be damaged.

Redness, itching, feeling unwell are possible. But the biggest harm that a plant can bring is allergies and even anaphylactic shock.

We are talking about an exotic plant that cannot be found in the natural conditions of our country during the day with fire, so be careful. If you buy a small zamiokulkas sprout for home, choose a safe place to place it, and do all the work with gloves.

The division of the bush

Dividing a bush is the easiest way. In this case, the adult bush is simply removed from the pot and divided into equal parts so that each new bush gets a decent part of the root system with tubers. Very often, after leaving the pot, the plant simply breaks up into the parts necessary for transplantation.

After separation, the rhizome is dried, pots are prepared with a fresh substrate, each part is planted in a separate container. After planting, observe the plant. Note that 90% of the separated bushes tolerate this procedure perfectly.

How to grow zamiokulkas from a leaf: the second way to propagate exotic

To grow from a leaf, you need to cut several leaves obliquely, and sprinkle the cut points with charcoal. If there is no wood, then we recommend grinding 2-3 tablets of activated pharmacy.

The leaf dries up, and you prepare the soil and the pot for rooting.

1. Which pot to choose is up to you. For small sheets of zamiokulkas, plastic cups are suitable, shallow plastic pots, mini planters. Do not choose a beautiful flowerpot for the initial planting - the plant grows quickly, and soon it will have to dive into another container.
2. At the bottom of the selected container, lay out a layer of foam, expanded clay or crushed brick - this is our drainage.
3. Now we prepare and fill the soil. The ideal combination of soil for zamiokulkas is peat and poured in a ratio of 2: 1, respectively.
4. Now moisten the soil, take the cut leaf and immerse it in the substrate. Planting at a depth of 1-2 cm. Then water and place in a warm place under diffused light. It is recommended to cover it with a jar so that the leaf does not dry out and is in a kind of greenhouse.

The leaves take root immediately after pruning, they are not immersed in water to germinate the roots. A small leaf of zamiokulkas strengthens in the soil for 30-45 days, it needs moderate watering. After rooting, the sprout quickly gains growth, and after a few years it can become a donor for brand new bushes.

Diseases and pests

The plant is practically not susceptible to pests. Rarely the plant is attacked spider mite, which leaves a white trace - a cobweb. For treatment, treat the flower with an insecticide. decorative look spoil small midges (aphids), settling heaps in the soil and on the leaves.

And from improper care or excessive generosity in the matter of watering, fertilizing, the plant simply dies.

Secrets of growing, or what to do if the flower gets sick?

What to do if zamiokulkas does not grow at all? You may have planted the plant in a pot that is too large, which is not recommended. The pot is chosen a few centimeters larger than the one used before the transplant. Zamiokulkas also does not grow at all during our summer, but it sprouts new shoots from late August to late February (summer in the southern hemisphere).

What to do if a tuber rots in the soil? Rot on a tuber is a sign of water overflow, and in this case, gardeners recommend cleaning the damaged layer to living tissue. Can be wiped off with gloved hands and then cleaned with a knife.

After cleaning, the tuber will be covered with a crust, and only after that the plant can be transplanted. If it rotted to the ground, the plant disappears, hurry to take the petioles from it to plant them again. You can also separate good tubers from rotten ones, sprinkle them with wood ash and transplant.

Dark or black spots are a sign of cold air or a draft, you overlooked, and the plant blew. Treatment is moving the flowerpot with the plant to a calm place.

If the petiole or leaf of the plant is wrinkled, this is a sign of water overflow or the presence of pests that gnaw on the roots and stems.

Home care

Caring for this plant at home is a real pleasure.

Problems that can happen to the plant

The only problem you may have is that the flower falls apart. Leaf petioles become thin, they fall and may even break. Many gardeners recommend tying the leaves. If you do not want a few lower branches to break off, then you can tie them to a special lattice stand.

Description of soil moisture, air and irrigation regime

Like all succulent plants, our exotic flower calmly reacts to low air humidity, and the soil in the pot does not really bother him. If you forgot to water your pet, don't worry, give him a quota of water, but don't fill the pot to the brim.

Watering is done after the upper part of the substrate layer dries. Overflowing water can lead to rotting of the root system, in which case it is very difficult to save the bush.

What temperature and lighting will the plant like?

The plant loves light, so try to save a place for it on a well-lit, warm windowsill. Note that if you decide to germinate the exotic in the winter, then it will need a backlight with a lamp.

In the warm season, it is useful to put large and small zamiokulkas on the balcony or in the garden so that the flower can breathe fresh air.

Favorable air temperature in summer is 24–25 °C, and in winter it is not lower than 12 °C.

How to feed and when to transplant a plant: time and recommended remedies

From the end of April to the end of August, it is recommended to feed 2 times a month with fertilizer for cacti or succulents. The fact is that Zamioculcas quickly consumes the supply of nutrients, and regular feeding will help maintain its healthy appearance.

Transplantation is done every year in the spring. After transplanting, the plant should be well fertilized and not flooded with water.

dollar tree, home care for which is very simple, is herbaceous plant from the Aroid family, known in the scientific literature as Zamioculcas. The representative of the tropical climate of Africa owes its popular name not only to beautiful bright green leaf plates, but also to energy, which, according to the practice of Feng Shui, attracts money and prosperity.

The genus Zamioculcas is represented by a single species - Zamioculcas Zamieist or Loddiges. The variety was named in 1856 after the discoverer Conrad Loddiges, who was a collector of exotic flora. However, in 1908, a second name appeared in the German botanical garden - zamiokulkas zamiyelistny, which is generally accepted at the present time.

Dollar tree: growing features

The main feature of a succulent plant is its ability to endure dry periods characteristic of natural growing conditions, due to the accumulation of moisture in the fleshy leaves, powerful stem and tuberous rhizome. Height up to 1m and bright appearance allows phytodesigners to use the plant for landscaping premises for various purposes and areas and create tropical corners with a special microclimate enriched with phytoncides.

Home care

Simple care for a dollar tree is the most important advantage of a plant: the undemanding and unpretentiousness of the culture, combined with a spectacular appearance, increase the decorative value of an exotic representative.

Location and lighting

To grow a healthy plant that will delight the eye with its decorative effect, it is necessary to provide it with a sufficient amount of light. The best option there will be a pot on the windowsills of south-facing windows with light shading during the peak of solar activity.

Important! The lack of light is the cause of the fading of the bright color of the leaf plates.

Temperature features

The flower is adapted to hot climatic conditions, so an increase in temperature in summer to 30 ° C does not pose a threat to it. While hypothermia is fraught with great dangers.

The optimal temperature regime depends on the season:

• in summer - 22-25 ° C;
• in winter - 16-18 ° С.

Carefully! Lowering the temperature below a value of 12 ° C can provoke the development of the disease and lead to the death of the flower.

Pot soil requirements

Succulents require light, fertile soil with a loose structure that will provide good aeration and water permeability. To prepare a soil mixture with similar indicators, peat, sand and leafy soil are used in equal proportions. When choosing a pot, it is worth choosing a clay or ceramic container that will withstand the onslaught of the growing roots of the dollar tree. To prevent moisture stagnation, a drainage layer of 2-3 cm is necessarily placed on the bottom of the pot.

Watering and humidity

Zamioculcas needs rare but plentiful watering, between which the earth in a pot should dry out completely.

Constantly moist soil can lead to the development of rot. Humidity in the room where the flower is kept should be increased in order to provide the flower with conditions as close to natural as possible.

To achieve a high level of humidity, you can:

1. Every day, spraying the plant with a spray bottle with settled, warm water.
2. By placing a container with a flower on a pallet filled with wet pebbles or moss.

Advice! To maintain the health of a tropical plant, you should systematically wipe the fleshy leaf plates of the dollar tree with a damp sponge, which will not only maintain high humidity, but also make it easier for Zamiokulkas to breathe, which is hindered by a layer of room dust.

top dressing

From the beginning of active vegetation, which is observed in mid-spring, and until mid-autumn, the plant needs to organize additional nutrition in the form of mineral complexes for cacti and or succulents. Top dressing is carried out regularly twice a month.

How to transplant a dollar tree?

The root system of the dollar tree is represented by densely spaced tubers, which are easily injured during a careless and quick transplant. Damage can lead to the death of the plant.

To prevent such a situation, transplantation is carried out with extreme caution and under the following conditions:

• The tree was brought from the store a few days ago and is in a shipping container filled with peat. To minimize plant stress during transplantation, the procedure should not be carried out immediately after purchase and give it time to adapt to future conditions.
• A young specimen needs an annual transplant into a container of a slightly larger diameter than the previous one.
• If the root system of an adult plant filled the pot and appeared from the drainage holes, then the time has come for the procedure. The best time for this is spring.

1. A pot is prepared that is suitable in size for the root system of the transplanted specimen.
2. The plant is placed in a container by transshipment together with an earthen clod.
3. The voids are filled with a nutrient substrate for succulents so that the top tubers remain 1 cm above the ground.

Pruning zamiokulkas

Formative pruning of the money symbol is carried out in the spring to give the plant the correct shape:

• Shoots growing inward are removed.
• The upper part of the shoot is cut off to stimulate the development of new side shoots.
• Branches that break out of the common crown due to too rapid growth are shortened.

Pests and diseases of Zamioculcas

Growing a dollar tree is accompanied by difficulties caused by damage by harmful organisms:

• Stem rot - in case of excessive watering carried out at low temperatures, the stem and root system begin to rot. To save the plant, the tubers are removed from the ground, the affected areas are removed, and the cut sites are treated with an antiseptic. After transplanting into a new substrate, the specimen is sprayed with a fungicide solution.
• Spider mite and mealybug - the plant is populated by sucking pests due to the dryness of the air. As protective measures, the following are carried out: wiping the leaf plates with a sponge dipped in soapy water, or spraying with an insecticide, which is most effective with a strong colonization.
• Aphids and thrips - harmful insects are noted after the succulent is outside. For control, systemic insecticides are used.
• Shchitovka - insects, as a rule, fall on a representative of exotic flora from other plants. If a pest is found, it is recommended to organize insecticide treatments according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Advice! To achieve a positive effect, the treatments are carried out in two stages with an interval of 10-14 days, depending on the duration of the toxicity of the selected drug.

How does the dollar tree bloom?

Zamioculcas flowering, in which an 8 cm long cob is formed, covered with a leaf plate, is an extremely rare occurrence even under natural growing conditions. However, if you follow the basic conditions for keeping a flower, then at home you can become a witness to a flowering dollar tree.

Tuber division

When transplanting an adult specimen, a rhizome division procedure can be carried out:

1. Pots are prepared 3-4 cm larger than the root system of the plant and filled with a nutrient substrate with a loose structure and a slightly acidic reaction.
2. The rhizome of the parent specimen is divided into equal parts.
3. Each part is placed in a separate container, moistened and moved to a well-lit window sill with protection from direct sun rays.

cuttings

During the procedure:

1. A stem cutting with a bud and a leaf is being prepared.
2. The cut point is sprinkled with crushed wood or activated charcoal.
3. After a couple of hours of being in the air, the stalk is placed in moistened sand.
4. The planting container is covered with polyethylene and moved to a warm and bright place.
5. After half a month or a month, roots form.

Important! During the rooting period, the cuttings should be systematically moistened.

leaf reproduction

Despite the duration of the root formation process, leaf propagation is considered the easiest way to breed a dollar tree, in which:

1. A small leaf plate is separated from the shoot, after which it is placed in moistened peat.
2. The container is covered with glass to create a greenhouse environment and transferred to a well-lit area.

Attention! Depending on the temperature and humidity, the process of tuber formation can take several months.

Thus, the beauty and originality of a tropical representative is worth the little effort of the grower, and a healthy and very decorative plant will decorate any room.

The Zamioculcas dollar tree outwardly resembles a fat woman - a money tree, only differs in its larger size and massiveness. Both plants symbolize financial well-being, only the fat woman's task is to take care of family budget, and zamiokulkas - to attract more funds, and in a currency that will become savings and bring income to the owner.

This is how followers of Taoist practice view this domestic vegetation and give recommendations on how to make a green pet “work” for the benefit of the owner. In turn, flower growers appreciate the dollar tree for its unpretentiousness and spectacular noble appearance.

The Zamioculcas plant, popularly nicknamed the dollar or currency tree, comes from Africa. It is a member of the Aroideae family, the only subspecies of Zamioculcas zamiifolia. He feels good in the climatic conditions of Europe, Asia, America, Mexico, Australia and Brazil. In Russia, it is found as a room or office flower.

It is somewhat reminiscent of zamiya - an evergreen relict plant. And the word “zamia” itself has Latin roots and is translated as “losses” or “damage”. In addition, in different parts of the world, the flower is found under different names: the pearl of Zanzibar, the eternal or golden tree, the aroid palm. It is also sometimes called the opposite: female happiness or a flower of celibacy.

In culture, the tree appeared relatively recently, flower growers learned about it only at the end of the last century. But, it almost immediately became popular in the world of floriculture due to sales at Dutch flower auctions, which are world famous.

Many Zamiokulkas liked because of the high decorative qualities, it is great for almost any interior. With good care, it grows up to one and a half meters, is a perennial, but life expectancy does not exceed 10 years.

The plant is a succulent with thick, straight stems. It can store moisture, filling it not only with stems and foliage, but also with tubers. This allows the tree to endure even prolonged droughts.

The leaves of Zamioculcas are fleshy, with a dark green, glossy surface and pointed ends. They are arranged in pairs, symmetrically. The succulent blooms rarely, throwing out a short, thick peduncle, on which a cream-colored ear-like flower appears. It is covered with a coverlet of a light green hue, so it is not so easy to notice the flowering of the dollar tree.

Popular types

Selection work with this succulent is still underway, and it brought its first fruits in 2007, when botanists bred a miniature bushy tree, Zamicro, on the basis of Zamioculcas, the height of which was only 40–60 cm.

Zamielistny

The main type of succulent that is found in the natural environment is Zamioculcas Zamielia, named after the gymnosperm Zamii,
the common name is lodgedges.
For the first time, botanists discovered it in the 30s of the 19th century; it is most common in Madagascar. Russian flower growers learned about the dollar tree only at the beginning of the 21st century, when specimens of this exotic plant were brought from Europe.
Worth this home flower quite expensive, however, this does not affect its high popularity.
Loddiges looks very impressive, forming a rosette of large pinnate leaves. The root system has a large tuber.

Zamielistny

Boivin

Another representative of the species, which in its homeland, in South Africa, is called the “pearl from Zanzibar”. Like the previous species, it prefers to grow on the coast of Madagascar.
A large tuber of a flower, like other parts of it, perfectly absorbs moisture, however, the succulent likes regular watering and a spray shower. Feels bad in dry air.
Zamioculcas buaven has beautiful foliage, leathery, emerald green, with smooth edges. Like other representatives, it blooms extremely rarely and this period does not last long.
With good care and frequent feeding, the tree grows significantly, so it is better to plant it in wide, stable containers. Suitable for novice gardeners.

Zamioculcas in the house: pros and cons

A lot of superstitions hovers around this succulent, in fact, this can be understood by the abundance of capacious additional names. So what does the money tree promise the owner, or scientifically - African Zamioculcas? It is worth considering the main beliefs associated with it:

Succulents attract wealth

The appearance of this flower in the house is a good sign, soon its inhabitants will experience an increase in the level of well-being. The Taoist Feng Shui practice claims that Zamioculcas, like a magnet, attracts money to a home.

But in order for the symbol to work, it is necessary to put a pot of succulents in the apartment in the wealth zone, which is located in the southeast. Naturally, this place should be suitable for growing tropical vegetation. And you can also put a few coins of foreign currency under the pot or in the ground.

Zamioculcas flower is a symbol of female happiness

It is believed that this plant can solve many problems of the fair sex if you put a pot with a dollar tree in the room. It will help a single girl find a soul mate or feel the joy of motherhood.

This action is due to the phallic shape of succulent flowers, there is a belief among the people that they can attract male energy. But here there is one caveat - it is advisable not to buy a flower, but to receive it as a gift. Best of all, if it is presented by a woman who has a happy marriage, this will significantly increase the chances of attracting a worthy, reliable man to the house.

This succulent is a tree of celibacy

Why in one case only positive qualities are attributed to him, and in the other - negative ones? Most likely, the reason for this is the similarity of the foliage of the dollar tree with the leaves of the spathiphyllum, which is considered a muzhegon.

It is interesting! The surest sign that a green pet is doing its “work” is its flowering, which occurs infrequently in nature, and is extremely rare at home. And if this happened, then only good things await the owner ahead: success, good luck in business and on the personal front, happiness. In the case when a person has changes coming, but he can’t decide on them in any way, and suddenly zamiokulkas blooms - this is a signal that he is on the right track and everything planned will definitely succeed.

Whether it is worth planting such an ambiguous indoor plant as a dollar tree in the house, the grower must decide for himself. But, it is important to remember that this is a rather large succulent that needs special care.

Caring for a dollar tree at home

This flower is a succulent plant and usually lovers of such vegetation have no problems growing it. The same conditions are suitable for him as for other "thrifty" green pets. Beginners should get acquainted with the features of keeping a tropical guest.

Adaptation period

Experienced flower growers advise: if you bought a zamiokulkas, you should give it time to adapt to a new room, air, temperature, humidity and other indicators. As a rule, these succulents are grown in greenhouses, conditions that are as close to natural as possible. After they are planted in transport soil and a compact container. During the move, the trees are under a lot of stress and in the store or even in the owner's house they can shed their leaves. You should not panic - the tree will recover and grow its dollar leaves.

It is not recommended to transplant it immediately, if the flower is not particularly crowded and it is in suitable soil, you can wait 3-4 weeks. But, when the soil is too oily or vice versa - poor, and the tuber does not have enough space, you can not do without a transplant.
The event should be carried out carefully:

• The plant is removed from the transport tank along with the soil.
• It must be gently shaken and planted in fresh soil and a spacious pot.
• It is better to refuse watering in the first two to three weeks, and after a while, water the succulent carefully - infrequently, in small portions, you can start with spraying.

It is important! For sale, flowers from abroad most often come in a transport substrate, which is practically unsuitable for their life and subsequently, in most cases, are not transplanted. Therefore, moving a green pet to a suitable land can be a salvation for him.

Suitable lighting

The dollar tree in this matter is unpretentious, it is able to grow from the shade and in the sun, however, the African zamiokulkas, as a true tropical inhabitant, loves bright lighting and develops more evenly and quickly under such conditions.

It is advisable to place a pot with a tree in a well-lit place; in bright, diffused light, the foliage of the succulent will retain a rich green tint. The tree tolerates direct sunlight well, however, the leaves become more faded in color.

In winter, the succulent may experience a lack of lighting, so it is advisable to place it closer to the light source, for example, on a window on the south side.

Temperature regime

It is directly related to the season:

• in summer, the preferred air temperature is +25 - +30 degrees;
• in autumn - varies from +16 to +22 degrees;
• in winter - the average is - + 16 degrees, a decrease is undesirable;
• in spring - the temperature should gradually increase, from +16 to +20 - +22 degrees.

It is important! Lowering the temperature is dangerous for the dollar tree. In the cold, the plant not only stops growing, but can get sick and even die.

Soil mixture for Zamioculcas

Like other succulent plants, the dollar tree needs light, nutritious soil. You can purchase a ready-made mixture designed for cacti and succulents, or you can prepare it yourself by mixing leafy, grain soil, adding peat and coarse sand. It is also recommended to add a little expanded clay crumb.

It is important to take care that excessive moisture does not linger in the soil, due to which the roots and tuber of the tree can rot. To do this, a layer of drainage material should be poured onto the bottom of the pot - brick chips, fine gravel, perlite, vermiculite, pieces of ceramics.
The bottom of the container must have drain holes.

Forced and planned transplant

This succulent has a powerful, strong root system, however, it is easy to damage it, which will lead to the death of the tree. And to reduce possible risks, transplant zamiokulkas should be subject to certain rules and recommendations:

• dollar tree - a typical slow-growing succulent, in which new leaves appear no more than 2 times in six months, so the flower does not need frequent transplants;
• scheduled transplants should be carried out when the roots of the plant grow - young succulents on average need 1 transplant per year, adults - once every 2-3 years;
• if the pet is transplanted from the substrate, then this material must be removed carefully, without damaging the roots;
• the most gentle method is the “transshipment” method, it maximally preserves the integrity of the Zamioculcas measles system, which is highly sensitive.

It is important! Do not neglect the "transshipment" method and completely remove the old earth from the flower roots. This can cause damage to the roots and subsequent death of the African tree. An exception is the transplant of a pet whose root system is infected with rot.

The root system is placed in a new pot along with the old soil and sprinkled with fresh soil mixture to the edges of the container. The full immersion of the root in the tank is not required, it is desirable that the tubers be slightly visible on the surface. You can water the transplanted zamiokulkas a couple of weeks after the event.

The dollar tree does not tolerate waterlogging of the soil. This leads to lethargy, yellowing of the foliage and rotting of the roots and tuber. A timely transplant will help save a tropical plant:

• in this case, you need to remove the root from the soil, clean it without damaging the parts;
• it is important to conduct a thorough inspection of the root system and if rotten dark brown areas are found, they should be removed;
• after that, you need to rinse the rhizome under jets warm water and dry thoroughly in the open air;
• The tree is ready to be transplanted into new soil.

If an emergency transplant is required, then it should be carried out immediately, but it is better to postpone the planned “move” until the spring period - at the end of March - the beginning of April. AT winter time the succulent is resting and is not recommended to be disturbed.

Watering mode and humidity level

This succulent accumulates water, and with all parts, and retains it, spending sparingly if necessary. Like other similar plants, it does not need excessive watering, and experienced flower growers note that it is better to underfill Zamioculcas than to overdo it. Excessive moisture is especially dangerous in winter.

In summer, the tree is watered every 5-7 days, in winter, especially if the flower is kept cool - no more than once every two weeks, or even less often. From November to February, you can limit yourself to one watering per month.

Water should be at room temperature, well settled, perfect option- rain.

The plant is not sensitive to air humidity, so no humidifiers or other devices are needed. It is recommended to wipe the foliage from time to time with a damp cloth, hitting the dust, which makes it difficult for air to enter the cells of the leaf plate.

You can arrange a monthly shower succulent, it invigorates and refreshes a tropical plant. However, it is important to ensure that no water remains in the container after the procedure; the pot is put in its original place only when all the liquid has drained from it.

pruning succulent

How to cut zamiokulkas, and most importantly, does this tropical plant need a similar procedure? As it turned out, it is carried out for several reasons:

• to give the tree any shape, increasing its decorative properties;
• to rejuvenate a succulent, the lower part of which is stiff;
• Zamioculcas pruning is possible if the owner wants to propagate the dollar tree;
• damaged or diseased parts of the plant are also cut off.

It is possible to cut all parts of the succulent: rhizome with tubers, leaves with cuttings and individual leaf blades. To reduce injury to the flower, it is recommended to manipulate with a sharp knife or secateurs. Sections of cuts are dried and sprinkled with powder of activated or charcoal.

How does the dollar tree reproduce?

Zamioculcas is distinguished by unpretentiousness and ease of care, the same applies to the propagation of succulents. There are several ways:

Tuber division

An effective method that is very simple and effective. To grow new zamiokulkas, it is enough to divide during transplantation root system tree into 2-3 parts and plant them in different containers. The process algorithm is as follows:

• After removing the plant from the soil, the tuber should be examined for the presence of growth points. Each separated part must have at least one, so that later shoots form from it.
• The rhizome is divided with a sharp blade, it is recommended to sprinkle the sections of the shoots with activated or charcoal powder, and then dry them in the open air.
• Then the plant is immediately placed in a pot, the soil mixture should be light, sterile. You can make its consistency looser by adding a little vermiculite to the soil.
• Part of the tree is sunk into the ground so that the root-leaf boundary is slightly higher above the ground.
• Planting should be watered only after 3-4 days, with a “dry” mode, the flower will cost the moisture contained in the flower bed.

It is important! The Zamioculcas tuber, which has only one growth bud, is not suitable for division. This procedure can lead to the death of the mother plant.

cuttings

Another way to propagate a tropical plant, which is recommended during the growing season - in the spring. As planting material healthy cuttings are used, and succulents bought in the flower department are not suitable for these purposes. The latter is due to the fact that the flower contains many chemicals that stimulate the active growth of the plant, regardless of the season.

The method includes the following steps:

• You should choose a healthy branch, cut it with a sharp knife with a disinfected blade and divide it into several parts.
• The stalk is dried in the air during the day.
• The cut point is processed with a root and placed in a small container with loose soil, there must be drainage holes in the pot.
• It is desirable for branches to provide greenhouse conditions by covering them with glass containers or film. The planting should be protected from direct sunlight, as the material may rot against the background of condensate accumulation.

In two weeks, the branches will turn into young plants - with a tuber, roots, shoots, new branches and foliage. You can use top dressing that activates the growth of new branches.

Reproduction by leaves

Not the fastest, but quite a simple and effective option for propagating an African tree. The whole process can take from 8 weeks to six months. It is carried out in stages:

• Using a disinfected blade, cut off a large, strong leaf, preferably with a stem. Such material will give roots faster than a young leaf.
• The sheet dries for 2-3 hours in the air, after which the cut is sprinkled with a stimulant drug - Zircon, Kornevin or crushed activated carbon.
• Some flower growers keep the leaf in water until the roots appear, but most often they are immediately placed with a light substrate and create a greenhouse effect. A leaf without a stalk can be placed in clean sand or perlite.
• A layer of drainage should be placed at the bottom of the tank. A couple of times a day you need to open the container and ventilate.
• Instead of watering, it is recommended to spray the soil and leaves, this will avoid waterlogging and rotting of the planting.

With proper care and appropriate conditions, cuttings and leaves begin to take root after 6-8 weeks.

Fertilization: rules and features

A succulent plant should be fed carefully, focusing on the needs of a guest from the tropics. As in the case of watering, it is important not to overdo it here:

• The first time you can fertilize in the spring, after transplanting Zamiokulkas into a pot. A young tree during the growing season needs a lot useful substances for proper growth and development.
• In winter, a healthy succulent does not require fertilizers; top dressing is applied only if there are signs of a lack of any elements.
• Since spring, the dollar tree is fertilized, but not more than 2 times a month.
• You can use liquid complex formulations for cacti or succulents.
• 2 methods are used: spraying the aerial part of the tree with a nutrient solution and watering the roots. The first method is only suitable for healthy plants that do not show signs of disease or depletion.
• It is recommended to apply funds to the soil after watering.

It is important! During the tying of buds, Zamioculcas should not be fed. After the process is completed, fertilization resumes.

What fertilizers are suitable for a dollar tree? Experienced flower growers are advised to alternate organic and mineral products:

organic

• Litter - suitable for root feeding, a mixture of water and fertilizer (3: 1) insist 3-4 days, diluted 1:25 with water.
• Compost - used in the form of mulch, which is laid out on the ground in a layer of 2–4 cm.
• Sapropel - dressing from lake silt - liquid or granules, which are diluted in water in a ratio of 1:10 before application.
• Wood ash - it is diluted in water, 5 tsp. per 1 liter, insist for a week, watered with a composition - 0.1 l per 1 kg of soil.
• Sawdust - applied to the soil as mulch.
• Peat - placed in a 5 cm layer and mixed with the top layer of soil.

Mineral fertilizers

A wide variety of products are produced, and each has its own properties that can both harm the flower and support it:

• Agricola - the composition is rich in various trace elements, it is diluted in a liter of water - 0.5 tsp. and bring into the ground once every one and a half weeks. It is not allowed to get the product on the aerial parts of the succulent.
• Agricola Aqua - ready composition, which is used for watering and spraying plants. When using it, the tree grows more actively, flowering and budding last longer.
• Pokon is a ready-made fertilizer, it is considered dangerous for people and animals, so you should only work with it if you have personal protective equipment.
• Uniflor-growth is a nitrogen-containing top dressing that has a positive effect on the growth of the aerial part of the succulent. A solution is prepared from it - 3 ml of the drug per liter of water.
• Master color is a drug necessary for the prevention of chlorosis.

During the growing season, fertilizers intended for decorative and deciduous vegetation can be applied. Only it is necessary to dilute the funds by 2 times, lowering the concentration of active substances. The event is held no more than 2 times in 4 weeks.

The main mistakes in the care and maintenance of the dollar tree

Often, the owners of a dollar tree are at a loss, why such an unpretentious succulent does not grow? Yes, the plant is unpretentious, however, it is still important to consider that its natural environment is the arid regions of the tropics and it has certain needs. The following signs should alarm the owner of Zamioculcas:

Foliage yellowing

If yellowness affects the lower lobes of old leaves, then we are talking about a natural process and there is nothing to worry about. After they die, young arrows appear, from which emerald green leaves unfold.

Sudden yellowing and fall of foliage is a sign of drying out of the succulent. The flower prepared itself, deciding that a drought had come. If you carefully add moisture in small portions, the green part of the flower will recover.

In addition, this can happen with sudden temperature changes, due to drafts, lack of lighting. Yellowing of the tips signal that the tree is too hot.

If the young foliage has acquired a yellow color, then most likely the earthen coma has become waterlogged and an emergency transplant is required to save the succulent.

The appearance of spots

Under the influence of direct sunlight, burnt areas may appear on the foliage of a tree - spots of a yellowish-brownish color. Dark spots are a sign of a violation in care, perhaps the container with the plant is in a draft, cold, or it is watered incorrectly.

spotted stem

In this case, a more detailed diagnosis is required, since the appearance of spots on the stem can be either a sign of inappropriate maintenance and care, or a symptom of scab infection or the development of an infection.

If dark, purple-tinged spots appear on this part of the succulent, you should not worry - this is a biological feature of an adult flower.

slow growth

You should not expect rapid growth from a succulent; normally, it grows 1-2 leaves per year. You should worry if there is no growth at all. The reason for this may be the following:

• oily, heavy, clay soil;
• placing a flower in a container that is too spacious;
• lack of any substances in the earth.

In most cases, with timely rehabilitation measures, it is possible to save the plant. However, sometimes the malaise of a succulent is associated with diseases, then emergency measures are required and the treatment of a green pet is mandatory.

Dollar Tree Diseases

Not all indoor flowers have the same good health and immunity as this African plant. But zamiokulkas can also get sick and most often it is affected by root or stem rot.

It is not so easy to detect signs of damage to the roots, but the disease manifests itself very clearly on the stem - it is covered with wet necrotic spots that spread upward from the root neck.
Symptoms of root rot are as follows: growth retardation, stem flabbiness, yellowing of foliage.

If the disease is detected at an early stage, then the succulent can be saved by carrying out a complete transplant, replacing the soil and pot, after removing the affected parts or cleaning them to deep layers. It is recommended to hold the plant for a quarter of an hour in a fungicidal solution and let it dry for an hour and a half. After the flower is placed in a new soil.

Initially, the tree is not watered, after a few days you can put some water in the pan. The lean watering regime is maintained for 10-12 weeks.

African succulent pests

spider mite

Shchitovka

It draws life-giving juices from the plant, and in addition, it secretes a sweet, sticky liquid that attracts insects that carry viral and bacterial infections. Where the scale insect settles, spots of a dark shade appear.

The pet needs treatment - treatment with soapy water and spraying with insecticidal agents.

Aphid

More often, garden plantings suffer from these small insects, but these pests and indoor plants are capable of infecting. There are many folk remedies from aphids, but they are ineffective and it is better to immediately resort to insecticides - Fitoverm, Decis, Intavir.

thrips

The most insidious pests from which it is not so easy to rid a succulent. It will take several treatments with various drugs that need to be changed.

Mealybug

The people called them hairy lice, they harm both the above-ground part of the flowers and the underground part, laying eggs in the ground. Therefore, only processing the leaves will not give a positive result. A complete transplant of the succulent is required with the removal of insect nests from the root system.

The tree is removed from the ground, washed with soapy water and then treated with an insecticidal agent.

If the owner knows what to do in this or that case, immediately reacts to the changes that have occurred with the pet, then it is not difficult for him to cure him and help him recover.

Conclusion

Zamioculcas is an incredible plant, which is attributed to unique properties. It has high decorative properties and gives a special flavor to any interior. Beautiful, spectacular, attracts wealth and prosperity, and at the same time, even a novice grower can afford it, which makes the dollar tree an even more attractive indoor dweller.

The plant Zamioculcas (Zamioculcas), which is also called the dollar tree, is a representative of the Aroid family, in nature it can be found in the tropical latitudes of Africa. According to information taken from various sources, this genus combines from 1 to 4 species. The plant was named zamiokulkas because its foliage is very similar to the leaves of the zamia growing on the American continent.

Zamioculcas is a low herbaceous plant. Its rhizome is tuberous, and the roots are thick and fleshy. A thick and juicy rachis is very necessary for a flower, as it stores water in it. Leathery to the touch feathers are quite dense. In length, the leaf plate can reach about 100 cm. During a long dry period, the plant throws off the leaves from the upper part of the leaf plate, due to this, moisture evaporation decreases, and the petiole from below is needed to preserve fluid for the bush. Another accumulation of moisture occurs in the underground tuber. A well-grown bush can begin to bloom when grown at home. A short thick peduncle emerges from the base of the leaves, it bears an ear-inflorescence of a pale cream color.

Brief description of cultivation

1. . Zamioculcas is grown as an ornamental leafy plant.
2. illumination. Requires plenty of bright sunlight.
3. Temperature regime. In the spring-summer period - from 22 to 25 degrees, and in winter - about 16 degrees.
4. . in spring and summer time the plant is watered immediately after the top layer of the substrate in the pot dries out. In late autumn and until spring, watering is reduced. If the flower is placed in a cool place for wintering, then it should be watered only after the earthen lump in the pot has completely dried out.
5. Air humidity. It grows well at such a level of air humidity, which is typical for residential premises. However, on hot days, its foliage should be regularly moistened from a sprayer with tepid water.
6. fertilizers. From the second half of the spring period until the end of summer, the bush is fed once every 15 days, for this they use fertilizers for succulents and cacti. The rest of the time the plant does not need to be fed.
7. rest period. From the last weeks of autumn to the beginning of spring.
8. Transfer. It is carried out only when it is necessary, as a rule, 1 time in 2–4 years. This procedure is carried out in spring or summer.
9. soil mixture. A suitable substrate should consist of sand, garden, garden and forest soil (5:2:2:2). A small amount of charcoal is added to the finished soil mixture.
10. reproduction. Leaf cuttings and division of the rhizome.
11. Harmful insects. Scale insects and aphids.
12. Diseases. With improper care, dark spots may appear on the foliage or it completely flies around, the shoots can stretch out strongly, or rot forms on the roots and stems.

illumination

Zamioculcas tolerates the direct rays of the sun well, in this regard, it can be placed on a south-facing window. However, in the summer, with a lack fresh air at midday, the plant is recommended to be shaded. It also grows normally and develops on light windowsills of western or eastern orientation. A flower recently purchased from a store is gradually accustomed to the direct rays of the sun, otherwise burns may form on the surface of the foliage. The same is done after prolonged cloudy weather.

Temperature regime

In spring, summer and autumn, the plant needs warmth (from 22 to 25 degrees). In winter, it is moved to a cooler place (about 16 degrees). The room in which the flower is located must be systematically ventilated.

From spring to the end of autumn, watering the dollar tree is carried out only after the soil mixture in the pot dries out by half. The rest of the time, watering should be more scarce and rare. The same mode of watering the flower is also necessary in case of prolonged cloudy weather. If the room is cooler than necessary, then the substrate is moistened only after it is completely dry. During a prolonged drought, the upper part of the leaf blades dries up.

Water the flower with soft and well-settled water (at least 24 hours). Make sure that throughout the year the liquid does not stagnate in the root system of the plant.

Air humidity

Dollar tree grown in room conditions, grows well at low humidity, which is typical for living rooms. In this regard, it is not necessary to moisten the foliage. However, in sultry summer days leaves are recommended to be regularly wiped with a dampened sponge or sprayed warm water from a spray bottle.

Only a well-developed plant can bloom in room conditions. He has an inflorescence-cob on a short peduncle, which is covered on top with an apical pale green leaf.

Fertilizer

Top dressing is carried out from the second half of spring until autumn, the flower is fed 1 time in 2 weeks, for this they use fertilizer for cacti or succulents. The rest of the time, feeding is not carried out only if the weather is cloudy.

Garter

In a grown bush, large leaf plates need to be supported; for this, a special support with rings is used. If this is not done, then the leaves begin to collapse.

Transplantation is recommended only if necessary in spring or summer. As a rule, it is done 1 time in 2-4 years. With rare transplants, the growth of the bush can be slowed down. For transplanting, it is recommended to use a tall clay pot. If the container is taken too wide, then the development of the root system will occur at first, and at the same time, the growth of the aerial part will greatly slow down. And in a pot that is too large, there is a possibility of stagnation of liquid in the soil mixture. For transplantation, a substrate of the following composition is used: sand, garden, garden and forest soil (5:2:2:2). Also, a small amount of charcoal can be poured into the finished soil mixture. Do not forget to make a good drainage layer at the bottom of the pot, which should occupy at least ¼ of the container.

reproduction

This plant can be propagated by dividing and rooting leaves and leaf blades. For rooting, a mini-greenhouse is used, which is filled with a mixture of peat and sand, while the air temperature should be above 20 degrees.

Leaves that have flown around at the base may form nodules. They can be used for reproduction, over time they will develop roots and buds. If development proceeds normally, then the first stem can form after six months.

With improper care, Zamioculcas may have problems. For example:

1. Leaf blades are dying. If the foliage has mechanical damage, then this can lead to their death.
2. The plant is stretched. This is due to too poor lighting.
3. Foliage flying. If the lower leaf plates die off and fly around, then this is a completely natural process.
4. Spots on the leaves. Dark-colored spots form on the foliage, this can occur due to drafts, excessive watering and cold air.
5. Rot appeared on the bush. Roots and shoots can develop rot if the room is too cold and water stagnation is regularly observed in the substrate.
6. Harmful insects. This plant is highly resistant to pests, but scale insects or aphids can settle on it.

Types of zamiokulkas with photos and names

Zamioculcas zamielifolia (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

Or Zamioculcas loddigesii (Zamioculcas loddigesii) - this species can be found in natural conditions in East Africa. The rhizome is a tuber, from which leaf plates grow, reaching a length of about 0.6 m. The leaf plates are divided into feathery leaves, of which there are from 4 to 6 pairs. During a prolonged drought, the plant can drop leaves from the top of the leaf plate, thereby reducing the evaporation of moisture.

Zamioculcas variegated (Zamioculcas variegate)

Variegated or variegated zamiokulkas is very difficult to find in flower shops. His homeland is the island of Madagascar. At home, it can reach a height of 1 to 1.5 meters. The leaves are arranged symmetrically in strict order. They have a bright green color, juicy pulp, pointed at the tips. The flowers of the plant rarely appear, with very good care. The inflorescence is formed in the form of an ear.

Zamioculcas lanceolate (Zamioculcas Lanceolata)

It got its name because of the elongated leaves of the original lanceolate shape. The flower was first exhibited at flower auctions in Holland at the end of the 20th century. Its height reached 1.5 meters and above. In 2007, a miniature plant was bred, not exceeding 60 centimeters in height. Its leaves are an exact copy of the progenitor, only in a reduced size.

Black Zamioculcas (Zamioculcas Blak)

The plant has leaves and cuttings almost black. Otherwise, it is completely similar to Zamioculcas Zamifolia. The same fleshy leaves, pointed at the tips, fixed symmetrically on both sides on a common handle. The young bush has salad-colored leaves. As they mature, they begin to darken. At the same time, the lighting in the room does not affect their color at all. No matter how the florist tries to lighten the leaves, he will not succeed. This "tree" looks very impressive. Therefore, it will perfectly decorate any room.

Zamioculcas- This is an ornamental deciduous plant with very beautiful shiny dark green leaves. Zamioculcas, or the more common popular name for this plant - "Dollar Tree", is a member of the Aroid family, along with such popular domestic species as Spathiphyllum (female happiness flower) and Anthurium (male happiness flower). Why is this beautiful plant called the Dollar Tree and can this celibacy flower (the second common name) really interfere with happiness with its "soul mate"? Below you will find answers to these popular questions, as well as learn how to properly organize the care of zamiokulkas at home. Photo and video materials will help beginner gardeners to transplant correctly, choose a method of reproduction, and also effectively get rid of pests or diseases of this indoor plant.

It is important to note that many interior designers very often choose the Dollar Tree along with the ficus Benjamin tree and the palm-shaped dracaena Marginata to form a phytodesign in a home space or to decorate a winter garden in a glazed room. Twigs growing straight up from a tuber in a flowerpot with a substrate are decorated with glossy pinnately dissected leaves close to each other. When developing a phytodesign of a room, against the background of lush dark green zamiokulkas bushes, small indoor flowers such as homemade Saintpaulia violets, cyclamens with bright butterfly flowers, beautiful pelargoniums, graceful phalaenopsis orchids with delicate flowers are often placed.

So, why is Zamioculcas called the Dollar Tree?

Earth mix and top dressing.

The desired level of soil acidity is pH 6.0. The soil mixture is done almost the same as for cacti and other succulents: leafy soil, soddy soil, peat and coarse sand in a ratio of 1:1:1:1 (you can add, but not necessarily - a very small proportion of rotted humus). The mixture in the pot should not be too heavy, but well drained. Be sure to sterilize the mixture before planting the plant to kill pathogenic viruses and fungi.

During the growing season, you need to feed zamiokulkas once every few weeks, alternating organic fertilizers with mineral ones. Concentration - half of the recommended dose for indoor flowers.

Transfer.

The dollar tree can grow large (up to 1 meter high), but grows very slowly. It is advisable to transplant it no more than once every 3 years, picking up a pot a few centimeters larger in diameter and about 10% higher. At the bottom of the pot there is a hole for draining excess water. Before planting the plant, a drainage layer of expanded clay should be poured onto the bottom of the pot. Immediately after transplanting, place the plant pot in partial shade for a week.

Reproduction.

Cuttings. We cut off the stem with a sharp knife, and then shorten the stalk so that the leaf and bud remain on a small piece of the stem. The cut point can be sprinkled with crushed activated charcoal and then the cutting can be dried for several hours. Now we need to prepare a container filled with vermiculite and slightly deepen the cutting into it. Water the substrate daily. Roots will appear after 2-4 weeks.

Tuber division. During transplantation, you can divide the plant into two parts by carefully cutting the tuber. We plant each division in a shallow pot, which should be 3-4 cm wider than the rhizome in diameter. The earth mixture is used exactly the same as for the whole plant.

♦ WHY DO THE DOLLAR TREE LEAVES YELLOW?

There are two main reasons for this phenomenon.
The first is that the leaves of Zamioculcas turn yellow for natural reasons. In this case, old leaves begin to turn yellow, but at the same time, a natural growth of young leaves is observed. In this case, you should not worry, as the old leaves gradually dry out and fall off. By the way, it is impossible to remove yellowed leaves on your own, despite the fact that they slightly spoil the aesthetic appearance of the plant.

The second common reason is external factors caused by improper care for houseplant. In this case, against the background of yellowing leaves, the appearance of young leaves is not observed. Usually, a violation of the irrigation regime (waterlogging) leads to yellowing of the leaves. Constant drafts can also cause leaves to turn yellow. If in winter period only the tips of the leaves dry and turn yellow, then most likely the plant is very close to the elements heating system.

♦ COMMON DISEASES AND PESTS:

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