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Description
Cordia Sebestena, also known as Orange Geiger, is a small to medium-sized tree that belongs to the Borage family (Boraginaceae). It is native to the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, but has also been introduced to other tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The tree is highly valued for its ornamental value, as it produces bright orange tubular flowers that bloom in clusters throughout the year. These flowers are followed by small, round, yellow-orange fruits that are edible but not commonly consumed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Cordia |
Appearance
The Cordia Sebestena tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide. It has a dense, rounded crown with glossy, dark green leaves that are 3-6 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The flowers are 2-3 inches long and trumpet-shaped, with five rounded petals that are bright orange in color. The fruit is a small, round, yellow-orange drupe that is approximately 1/2 inch in diameter.
Care Guide
Cordia Sebestena is a relatively low-maintenance tree that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Orange Geiger:
- Water: Water your Cordia Sebestena deeply and regularly, especially during the hot summer months. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your tree once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and blooming.
- Soil: Cordia Sebestena prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sand, loam, and clay.
- Sunlight: Cordia Sebestena prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but may not bloom as well in lower light conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: Cordia Sebestena is hardy in USDA zones 10-11, but can also be grown in zones 9a-9b with some protection.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cordia Sebestena is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but may occasionally be affected by spider mites, mealybugs, or scale insects. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The tree may also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly-drained soil.
Habitat
Cordia Sebestena is native to the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including coastal areas, savannas, and dry forests. It is commonly planted as an ornamental tree in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, where it can be found in parks, gardens, and along streets and highways.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cordia Sebestena poisonous?
A: No, Cordia Sebestena is not poisonous. Its fruit is edible but not commonly consumed.
Q: How long does it take for Cordia Sebestena to bloom?
A: Cordia Sebestena typically blooms from spring to fall, with peak blooming in the summer months.
Q: Can Cordia Sebestena be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Cordia Sebestena can be grown in a container, but it may not bloom as well as it would in the ground.
Q: How often should Cordia Sebestena be pruned?
A: Cordia Sebestena does not require regular pruning, but can be pruned to remove dead or diseased wood or to control its size and shape.
Related Plants
- Cordia boissieri
- Cordia dichotoma
- Cordia gerascanthus
- Cordia lutea
- Cordia myxa
- Cordia parvifolia
References
- “Cordia sebestena.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 25 August 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c900>
- “Cordia sebestena.” University of Florida Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants. Accessed 25 August 2021. <https://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/plant-directory/cordia-sebestena/>
- “Cordia sebestena.” Floridata. Accessed 25 August 2021. <https://floridata.com/Plants/Boraginaceae/Cordia+sebestena/187>
