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Description
Camptotheca Acuminata, also known as the Chinese Happy Tree, is a deciduous tree native to China. It belongs to the Nyssaceae family and is known for its medicinal properties. It is a slow-growing tree that can reach up to 20 meters in height and 60 centimeters in diameter. The tree has a broad and rounded crown with a straight trunk. The leaves of the plant are simple, alternate, and ovate. The flowers are small and yellowish-green in color, and the fruit is a small capsule containing a single seed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Nyssaceae |
| Genus | Camptotheca |
Appearance
Camptotheca Acuminata has a smooth, grey bark that peels off in thin strips. The tree has a broad and rounded crown with a straight trunk. Its leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate, measuring 7-15 cm in length and 4-8 cm in width. The leaves are dark green in color and turn yellow in the fall. The tree produces small, yellowish-green flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The fruit is a small capsule containing a single seed that is dispersed by the wind.
Care Guide
Camptotheca Acuminata is a slow-growing tree that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. The tree can tolerate a range of soil types, including acidic, alkaline, and loamy soils. It is important to water the tree regularly during the first few years of growth to establish a healthy root system. Fertilize the tree once a year with a balanced fertilizer in the spring. The tree is hardy to USDA zones 6-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Camptotheca Acuminata is susceptible to various pests and diseases. The most common pests include scale insects, spider mites, and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The tree is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as verticillium wilt and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Camptotheca Acuminata is native to China but has been introduced to other countries, including the United States. The tree grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and stream banks. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Camptotheca Acuminata a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, the tree is known for its medicinal properties and is used to produce the anti-cancer drug, Camptothecin.
Q: How tall can Camptotheca Acuminata grow?
A: The tree can reach up to 20 meters in height.
Q: What is the fruit of Camptotheca Acuminata?
A: The fruit is a small capsule containing a single seed.
Q: What pests and diseases are common in Camptotheca Acuminata?
A: Scale insects, spider mites, aphids, verticillium wilt, and leaf spot are common pests and diseases in the tree.
Related Plants
- Camptotheca Lowreyana
- Camptotheca Velutina
- Camptotheca Acuminata ‘Chinensis’
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/happy-tree/growing-camptotheca-trees.htm
- https://www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/TreeDetail.cfm?ItemID=1015
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/camaco/all.html
