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Description
Carpinus Kawakamii is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree that belongs to the family of Betulaceae. It is a native species of Taiwan and is known for its striking fall foliage. The tree is commonly found in the central mountain range of Taiwan, growing at elevations between 1,000 and 2,500 meters above sea level. It is often grown as an ornamental tree due to its attractive foliage and overall appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Betulaceae |
| Genus | Carpinus |
Appearance
The Carpinus Kawakamii has a dense, spreading crown that can grow up to 20 meters in height. The bark is smooth and gray, and the leaves are ovate to elliptic, with a serrated margin. The leaves are dark green and glossy during the growing season, turning yellow to orange in the fall. The tree produces small flowers in the spring, which are followed by small, winged nuts in the fall. The nuts are an important food source for birds and squirrels.
Care Guide
The Carpinus Kawakamii is a relatively low-maintenance tree that can tolerate a range of soil types and growing conditions. However, for best results, it is important to provide the tree with adequate water, fertilization, and sunlight. The tree prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is hardy to USDA zones 7 to 9.
Water: The tree prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the fall and winter.
Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in the early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and weak branches.
Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Amend heavy clay soil with organic matter to improve drainage.
Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant the tree in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: The Carpinus Kawakamii is hardy to USDA zones 7 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Carpinus Kawakamii is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by a few common issues, including:
Anthracnose: A fungal disease that causes leaf spots and cankers on the branches. Treat with a fungicide and prune infected branches.
Aphids: Small insects that suck sap from the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Scale insects: Small insects that suck sap from the branches. Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The Carpinus Kawakamii is a native species of Taiwan and is commonly found in the central mountain range of the island. It grows at elevations between 1,000 and 2,500 meters above sea level, in cool, moist environments. The tree is often grown as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Carpinus Kawakamii a fast-growing tree?
A: No, the Carpinus Kawakamii is a relatively slow-growing tree, growing at a rate of around 1 to 2 feet per year.
Q: Can the Carpinus Kawakamii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: When is the best time to prune the Carpinus Kawakamii?
A: Prune the tree in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Q: Does the Carpinus Kawakamii produce any notable fragrances?
A: No, the tree is not known for producing any notable fragrances.
Related Plants
- Carpinus Betulus (European Hornbeam)
- Carpinus Caroliniana (American Hornbeam)
- Carpinus Japonica (Japanese Hornbeam)
- Carpinus Orientalis (Oriental Hornbeam)
References
- “Carpinus kawakamii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c177.
- “Carpinus kawakamii.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60495481-2.
- Lu, Sheng-Zehn, et al. “Effects of Carpinus kawakamii Hayata leaves on glucose uptake in vitro and in vivo.” BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, vol. 17, no. 1, 2017, p. 375., doi:10.1186/s12906-017-1874-4.
