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Description
Castela, also known as the “gopher plant,” is a shrub or small tree that belongs to the Simaroubaceae family. This plant is native to the Southwestern United States and Mexico and is well-known for its unique appearance and medicinal properties. Castela can grow up to 20 feet tall and has dark green leaves that are tough and leathery. The plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, followed by small, round fruits that are about 1 inch in diameter. The fruits are green when young and turn yellow or orange when ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Simaroubaceae |
| Genus | Castela |
Appearance
Castela has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other plants. The plant has dark green, leathery leaves that are about 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are arranged in an alternating pattern along the stems. Castela produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that are about 1/8 inch in diameter. The flowers bloom in clusters at the ends of the branches in the spring and summer. The plant produces small, round fruits that are about 1 inch in diameter. The fruits are green when young and turn yellow or orange when ripe.
Care Guide
Castela is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your Castela healthy and thriving:
Water: Castela is drought-tolerant and prefers well-draining soil. Water your Castela deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter months.
Fertilization: Castela does not require much fertilization. If you choose to fertilize your plant, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
Soil: Castela prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
Sunlight: Castela thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Make sure your plant receives at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
Hardiness Zones: Castela is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Castela is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent these pests, keep your Castela clean and free of debris. If you notice an infestation, treat your plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Castela is native to the Southwestern United States and Mexico and can be found in arid and semi-arid regions. The plant prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate drought and high temperatures. Castela is often found in desert landscapes and is well-suited for xeriscaping.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Castela be grown indoors?
A: Castela prefers full sun and is not well-suited for indoor growing. However, it can be grown in a greenhouse or other controlled environment.
Q: Is Castela toxic?
A: Castela has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries and is generally considered safe. However, the plant contains bitter compounds that can cause vomiting or diarrhea if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Can Castela be used for landscaping?
A: Castela is a great choice for xeriscaping and can add unique texture and color to desert landscapes.
Q: How often should Castela be pruned?
A: Castela does not require much pruning. If you need to shape your plant, do so in the early spring before new growth begins.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Castela:
- Simarouba glauca
- Ailanthus altissima
- Brucea javanica
- Quassia amara
References
- “Castela emoryi,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed October 12, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282572&isprofile=0&basic=castela.
- “Castela,” Arizona State University, accessed October 12, 2021, https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapai/anr/hort/byg/archive/castela.html.
- “Castela,” The Spruce, accessed October 12, 2021, https://www.thespruce.com/castela-gopher-plant-1903216.
