Contents
Description
Cordia Lutea is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to South America, specifically in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The plant is also known as “yellow cordia” or “Spanish elm” due to its yellow flowers and leaves that resemble those of the elm tree. Cordia Lutea can grow up to 10 meters tall and has a rounded canopy with dense foliage. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance and ability to thrive in different soil types.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Cordia |
| Species | Lutea |
Appearance
Cordia Lutea has glossy, dark green leaves that are elliptical in shape and can grow up to 15 centimeters long. The plant produces fragrant yellow flowers that are tubular in shape and have five petals. The flowers bloom in clusters at the end of the branches, and each cluster can have up to 25 flowers. The fruit of Cordia Lutea is a small berry that turns from green to purple when ripe. The plant’s bark is gray and smooth when young, but it becomes rough and fissured as it ages.
Care Guide
Cordia Lutea is a low-maintenance plant that requires moderate watering and fertilization. The plant can tolerate different soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Cordia Lutea can grow in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures as low as 25°F. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cordia Lutea is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, the plant can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled by regularly inspecting the plant and spraying it with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Cordia Lutea can also be affected by root rot if it is planted in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
Cordia Lutea is native to South America, where it grows in open woodlands, savannas, and scrublands. The plant can also be found along riverbanks and in disturbed areas. Cordia Lutea is an important plant in traditional medicine and is used to treat various ailments, including digestive problems, fever, and inflammation.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cordia Lutea poisonous?
A: No, Cordia Lutea is not poisonous. However, the plant’s fruit is not edible.
Q: Can Cordia Lutea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Cordia Lutea can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does Cordia Lutea attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Cordia Lutea’s flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to a pollinator garden.
Q: Can Cordia Lutea be pruned?
A: Yes, Cordia Lutea can be pruned to maintain its shape and size. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Cordia Lutea:
- Cordia boissieri
- Cordia dentata
- Cordia globosa
- Cordia sebestena
References
- “Cordia Lutea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Available at: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281508.
- “Cordia Lutea.” Plants of the World Online. Available at: http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:115968-2.
- “Cordia Lutea.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Available at: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP542.
