Dolichandrone

Description

Dolichandrone is a genus of flowering trees native to tropical regions in Asia, Africa, and Oceania. It belongs to the family Bignoniaceae, which includes other popular ornamental plants like trumpet vine and jacaranda. The most commonly cultivated species is Dolichandrone serrulata, also known as the Indian trumpet tree or the queen’s crape myrtle. It is highly prized for its showy, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in clusters during the summer months.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Dolichandrone trees are medium-sized to large deciduous or evergreen trees that can grow up to 15 meters tall. They have a straight trunk with smooth, gray bark and a dense, spreading crown. The leaves are simple, alternate, and usually ovate or elliptic in shape, with serrated margins. The flowers are large, trumpet-shaped, and come in shades of pink, purple, or white. They are arranged in terminal or axillary clusters that can be up to 30 cm long. The fruit is a long, narrow, brown capsule that contains numerous winged seeds.

Care Guide

To grow Dolichandrone, you need to provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Water the tree deeply and regularly during the growing season, but let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Dolichandrone is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, where the minimum temperature does not drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Common Pests & Diseases

Dolichandrone is generally healthy and resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally suffer from infestations of scale insects, mealybugs, or spider mites. These pests can be controlled through the use of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The tree may also be susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew or leaf spot, which can be prevented by improving air circulation around the tree and avoiding overhead watering.

Habitat

Dolichandrone is native to tropical regions in Asia, Africa, and Oceania, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, savannas, and coastal areas. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate occasional flooding. In its native range, Dolichandrone is used for timber, medicine, and ornamental purposes.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Dolichandrone grow in cold climates?

A: No, Dolichandrone is not cold hardy and cannot tolerate temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Dolichandrone tree?

A: Fertilize the tree every two weeks during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer.

Q: Can Dolichandrone be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Dolichandrone can be grown in containers, but it will need to be repotted every few years to prevent the roots from becoming pot-bound.

Q: Does Dolichandrone attract bees?

A: Yes, Dolichandrone flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Related Plants

• Jacaranda
• Trumpet vine
• Crape myrtle
• Tabebuia

References

• The Plant List (2021). Dolichandrone. Retrieved from https://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Bignoniaceae/Dolichandrone/
• University of Florida IFAS Extension (2021). Dolichandrone serrulata. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/st605
• Missouri Botanical Garden (2021). Dolichandrone serrulata. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=275659