Diploknema Yunnanensis

Description

Diploknema Yunnanensis is a deciduous tree native to Southeast Asia, particularly in China and Vietnam. It belongs to the family Sapindaceae and is known by several common names such as Yunnan sweetgum, Chinese sweet gum, and fragrant sweet gum. The tree can reach up to 20 meters in height and has a straight trunk with a diameter of up to 60 centimeters.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The leaves of Diploknema Yunnanensis are alternate, pinnately compound, and measure up to 25 centimeters in length. They have a glossy dark green color and turn yellow, orange, or red in the autumn. The tree produces small fragrant flowers that are white or yellowish-green in color and bloom from May to June. The fruit is a brownish-red capsule that contains 1-2 seeds and is about 2 centimeters in diameter.

Care Guide

Water: Diploknema Yunnanensis prefers moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flower and fruit production.

Soil: The tree grows best in well-draining loamy soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. Amend heavy clay soil with organic matter to improve drainage.

Sunlight: Diploknema Yunnanensis prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 8-10 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°F (-12°C).

Common Pests & Diseases

Diploknema Yunnanensis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and scale insects. Treat with an appropriate fungicide or insecticide if necessary.

Habitat

Diploknema Yunnanensis grows naturally in subtropical and tropical forests at elevations of 800-2400 meters. It is often found in mixed forests with other broad-leaved trees such as oaks, maples, and birches.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Diploknema Yunnanensis a fast-growing tree?

A: No, it is a slow-growing tree that can take several years to reach maturity.

Q: Can Diploknema Yunnanensis be grown in containers?

A: Yes, but it is not recommended as the tree can grow quite large and requires a lot of space for its roots.

Q: Does Diploknema Yunnanensis produce fruit every year?

A: No, it produces fruit sporadically and is not considered a reliable fruiting tree.

Q: Can Diploknema Yunnanensis be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes, it can be propagated from hardwood cuttings taken in late winter or early spring.

Related Plants

• Diploknema Butyracea
• Diploknema Hupehensis
• Diploknema Integrifolia

References

• Flora of China. (n.d.). Diploknema yunnanensis. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=210000410
• Morton, J. F. (1987). Sweetgum, Chinese. In Fruits of warm climates (pp. 353-355). Julia F. Morton.
• NatureServe. (2021). Diploknema yunnanensis. https://explorer.natureserve.org/Taxon/ELEMENT_GLOBAL.2.134995/Diploknema_yunnanensis