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Description
Comocladia Dodonaea is a plant species that belongs to the family Anacardiaceae. It is commonly known as Florida boxwood or hop tree and is native to the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America. This species is known for its medicinal properties and hardiness.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Comocladia |
Appearance
Comocladia Dodonaea is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It has a dense canopy with glossy green leaves that are divided into three leaflets. The leaves emit a pungent odor when crushed. The flowers are small and yellowish-green, and they bloom in the spring. The fruit is a small, reddish-brown drupe that ripens in the fall.
Care Guide
Comocladia Dodonaea is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for its care:
Water: This species is drought tolerant and can survive with little water. However, it is best to water it regularly during the first year after planting to establish its roots.
Fertilization: Comocladia Dodonaea does not require much fertilizer. You can use a general-purpose fertilizer once a year in the spring to promote growth.
Soil: This species prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
Sunlight: Comocladia Dodonaea thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate both conditions.
Hardiness Zones: This species is hardy in USDA Zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Comocladia Dodonaea is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildew. These can be treated with fungicides. The plant can also be attacked by spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Comocladia Dodonaea is native to the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and scrublands. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Comocladia Dodonaea poisonous?
A: No, this species is not poisonous. However, its leaves emit a pungent odor when crushed, which can irritate some people.
Q: Can Comocladia Dodonaea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this species can be grown in containers. However, it may require more water and fertilizer than if grown in the ground.
Q: How fast does Comocladia Dodonaea grow?
A: This species grows at a moderate rate of about 1-2 feet per year.
Q: Can Comocladia Dodonaea be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, this species has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, fever, and rheumatism.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Anacardiaceae family include:
- Mangifera indica (mango)
- Rhus aromatica (fragrant sumac)
- Toxicodendron radicans (poison ivy)
References
- https://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/duke_energy/Comocladia_dodonaea.html
- https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=CODO3
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/hop-tree/growing-hop-trees.htm
