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Description
Calodendrum is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Rutaceae. It is native to southern Africa and Madagascar. The genus contains only one species, Calodendrum capense, which is commonly known as Cape Chestnut. This tree is known for its beautiful pink to white flowers that bloom in the late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by woody capsules that contain seeds. The tree can grow up to 10-20 meters tall and 6-10 meters wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Calodendrum |
Appearance
The Calodendrum capense tree has a rounded canopy with a straight trunk that is gray-brown and smooth. The leaves are dark green and glossy, and the flowers are pink to white with a sweet fragrance. The tree produces woody capsules that contain seeds. The bark is smooth, and the branches are thin and flexible.
Care Guide
Calodendrum capense is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of your Calodendrum plant:- Water: Water your plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Do not let the soil dry out completely.- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a year with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.- Soil: Calodendrum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Plant your Calodendrum in full sun or partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Calodendrum is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calodendrum capense is not often affected by pests or diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:- Scale insects: These insects are small and can be found on the leaves and stems of the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap.- Aphids: These insects suck the sap from the leaves and can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can be controlled with fungicides.
Habitat
Calodendrum capense is native to southern Africa and Madagascar. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and savannas. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun or partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Calodendrum capense a fast-growing tree?
A: No, Calodendrum capense is a slow-growing tree.
Q: Does Calodendrum capense require pruning?
A: Calodendrum capense does not require pruning, but it can be pruned to maintain its shape.
Q: Is Calodendrum capense drought-tolerant?
A: No, Calodendrum capense requires regular watering and is not drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Calodendrum capense attract bees?
A: Yes, the flowers of Calodendrum capense attract bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
– Citrus limon- Citrus sinensis- Ruta graveolens- Zanthoxylum piperitum
References
– “Calodendrum capense.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b568.- “Calodendrum capense.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/calodendcap.htm.- “Calodendrum capense.” South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.sanbi.org/creature/calodendrum-capense/.
