Combretum Paniculatum

Description

Combretum Paniculatum, also known as the African bushwillow, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Combretaceae family. The tree is native to sub-Saharan Africa and can grow up to 20 meters tall. It features a wide spreading crown and a rough bark that is grey-brown in color. The leaves are simple, alternate, and lance-shaped, growing up to 14cm in length.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The African bushwillow is a beautiful tree with a wide spreading crown that provides ample shade. It has rough grey-brown bark that becomes deeply fissured as it matures. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a lance-shaped appearance. The flowers are small and white, growing in clusters at the end of the branches. The tree produces fruit that is small and round, turning from green to brown as it matures.

Care Guide

Combretum Paniculatum is a hardy tree that requires minimal care once established. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions. Here’s a quick guide to caring for this tree:

• Water: Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
• Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil, but can tolerate a wide range of soil types.
• Sunlight: The African bushwillow prefers full sun, but can tolerate some shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Combretum Paniculatum is hardy in USDA zones 9b to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Combretum Paniculatum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, here are some common issues to look out for:

• Scale insects: These pests can infest the tree, causing yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Control by spraying the tree with insecticidal soap.
• Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots and defoliation. Control by removing infected leaves and applying a fungicide.

Habitat

Combretum Paniculatum is native to sub-Saharan Africa, where it can be found in a variety of habitats, including savannas, woodlands, and riverbanks. The tree is often planted for its shade and ornamental value.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Combretum Paniculatum poisonous?
A: No, the tree is not poisonous and is safe for humans and animals.

Q: How fast does Combretum Paniculatum grow?
A: The tree grows at a moderate rate, reaching a height of 20 meters in around 20 years.

Q: Does Combretum Paniculatum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the tree is known to attract a variety of birds and insects.

Q: Can Combretum Paniculatum be grown in a container?
A: It is not recommended to grow this tree in a container as it can grow quite large and requires a lot of space to thrive.

Related Plants

• Combretum apiculatum
• Combretum bracteosum
• Combretum erythrophyllum
• Combretum fruticosum
• Combretum kraussii

References

• “Combretum Paniculatum.” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute. Accessed August 2, 2021. https://pza.sanbi.org/combretum-paniculatum/.
• “Combretum Paniculatum.” The Plant List. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 2, 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2739966.
• “Combretum Paniculatum.” World Agroforestry Centre. Accessed August 2, 2021. https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/AFTPDFS/Combretum_paniculatum.pdf.