Contents
Description
Bowdichia Virgilioides, also known as Sucupira, is a species of tropical tree native to South America. It belongs to the Fabaceae family, which is the third-largest family of flowering plants. Sucupira is a large tree that can reach a height of up to 25 meters, with a trunk diameter of up to 1 meter. The tree has a straight, cylindrical trunk that is covered with a dark brown bark that is fissured longitudinally. The leaves are compound and measure up to 50 cm in length, with 5 to 9 leaflets. The flowers are hermaphrodite and are arranged in axillary racemes, with a yellowish-white color. The fruit is a pod that is up to 20 cm long and 5 cm wide, containing 1 to 3 seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Bowdichia |
| Species | Bowdichia Virgilioides |
Appearance
Bowdichia Virgilioides has an attractive appearance with its large, compound leaves and yellowish-white flowers. The leaves are glossy green and provide a beautiful contrast against the dark brown bark of the trunk. The tree’s fruit pods are also an interesting feature, with their elongated shape and reddish-brown color.
Care Guide
Water
Bowdichia Virgilioides requires regular watering, especially during the first few years after planting. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Once the tree is established, it can tolerate occasional periods of drought.
Fertilization
Fertilization is recommended to promote healthy growth and development. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied twice a year in the spring and fall.
Soil
Sucupira thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soils, from sandy to clayey, as long as the soil is not waterlogged.
Sunlight
Bowdichia Virgilioides prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Bowdichia Virgilioides is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bowdichia Virgilioides is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by leaf spot, root rot, and nematodes. Regular monitoring and prompt treatment can help prevent these issues from spreading.
Habitat
Bowdichia Virgilioides is native to South America, where it can be found in tropical and subtropical forests. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate both wet and dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bowdichia Virgilioides a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, Bowdichia Virgilioides is considered a fast-growing tree, especially during the first few years after planting.
Q: Can Bowdichia Virgilioides be grown in containers?
A: It is not recommended to grow Bowdichia Virgilioides in containers as it requires a large space for its roots to grow and develop.
Q: How often should Bowdichia Virgilioides be pruned?
A: Bowdichia Virgilioides does not require frequent pruning. It is recommended to prune only to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches.
Q: Can Bowdichia Virgilioides be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Bowdichia Virgilioides can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.
Related Plants
- Bowdichia Nitida
- Bowdichia Eurycoma
- Bowdichia Ferox
- Bowdichia Virgilioides var. Humilis
References
- “Bowdichia Virgilioides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c357.
- “Bowdichia Virgilioides.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/bowdichvirg.htm.
- “Bowdichia Virgilioides.” World Agroforestry Centre, www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/speciesprofile.php?Spid=181.
