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Description
Clausena Excavata, also known as the Wampee, is a small to medium-sized tree that belongs to the citrus family. It is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in various countries such as China, Vietnam, and Thailand. The tree bears small, fragrant flowers that bloom in the summer and produces edible fruit that is similar to a grapefruit. The Wampee fruit is highly prized in certain cultures and is believed to have medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Rosids |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Clausena |
Appearance
The Clausena Excavata tree can grow up to 10 meters tall and has a round, dense crown. Its leaves are green and glossy, with a length of 5-20 cm and a width of 2-7 cm. The tree bears small, white, fragrant flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. The fruit of the Wampee is oval-shaped, with a diameter of 2-4 cm and a greenish-yellow color. The fruit contains 1-3 seeds and has a sweet, tangy flavor that is similar to a grapefruit.
Care Guide
Caring for Clausena Excavata is relatively easy. Here are some tips to keep your Wampee tree healthy:- Water: The Wampee tree prefers well-drained soil and requires moderate watering. Water the tree deeply once a week, and adjust the frequency based on the weather conditions.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and fruit production.- Soil: The Wampee tree prefers acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5. Use a well-drained soil mix that contains organic matter.- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Clausena Excavata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clausena Excavata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that you may encounter:- Citrus Leafminer: This pest can cause damage to the leaves of the tree. Use an insecticide to control the infestation.- Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly-drained soil can lead to root rot. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and adjust the watering frequency accordingly.- Fruit Fly: Fruit flies can damage the fruit of the Wampee. Use a fruit fly trap or insecticide to control the infestation.
Habitat
Clausena Excavata is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in various countries such as China, Vietnam, and Thailand. The tree prefers warm, humid climates and can grow in a variety of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Wampee fruit edible?
A: Yes, the Wampee fruit is edible and is highly prized in certain cultures.
Q: Does the Wampee tree require a lot of water?
A: No, the Wampee tree prefers moderate watering and requires well-drained soil.
Q: Can the Wampee tree grow in cold climates?
A: No, Clausena Excavata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and prefers warm, humid climates.
Q: Can the Wampee fruit be used in cooking?
A: Yes, the Wampee fruit can be used in various dishes such as salads, jams, and desserts.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Clausena Excavata:- Citrus aurantifolia (Lime)- Citrus reticulata (Mandarin)- Citrus sinensis (Sweet Orange)- Fortunella japonica (Kumquat)- Poncirus trifoliata (Trifoliate Orange)
References
– “Clausena Excavata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286393.- “Clausena Excavata.” Plant Village, plantvillage.psu.edu/topics/clausena-excavata/infos.
