Contents
Description
Dracontomelon is a genus of trees in the family Anacardiaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly known as the “dragon’s eye” or “sugar tree.” The tree can grow up to 40 meters in height and the trunk can reach up to 2 meters in diameter. The fruit of the Dracontomelon tree is used in food and medicine and is known for its sweet and sour taste.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Dracontomelon |
Appearance
The Dracontomelon tree has a tall and straight trunk with a rounded or umbrella-shaped crown. Its leaves are large and pinnate with 7-17 leaflets. The flowers of the tree are small and greenish-white, and the fruit is a round, fleshy drupe that is yellow or red in color. The fruit is about 2-4 cm in diameter and has a hard seed inside.
Care Guide
The Dracontomelon tree prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types but does not do well in extremely dry or wet soil. The tree should be watered regularly during the growing season and fertilized once a year in the spring. It is hardy in zones 10-11 and can be propagated by seed or cuttings.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Dracontomelon tree is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases including leaf spot, anthracnose, and fruit flies. Regular inspection and treatment with appropriate chemicals can help prevent and control these issues.
Habitat
Dracontomelon is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines. It grows in lowland and montane rainforests and is often found near rivers or in moist areas.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the fruit of the Dracontomelon tree used for?
A: The fruit of the Dracontomelon tree is used in food and medicine and is known for its sweet and sour taste.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Dracontomelon tree?
A: The Dracontomelon tree is hardy in zones 10-11.
Q: How can the Dracontomelon tree be propagated?
A: The Dracontomelon tree can be propagated by seed or cuttings.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases of the Dracontomelon tree?
A: Some common pests and diseases of the Dracontomelon tree include leaf spot, anthracnose, and fruit flies.
Related Plants
- Mangifera indica
- Anacardium occidentale
- Spondias mombin
References
- “Dracontomelon.” In: Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. Last updated: 28 June 2021. Web. Accessed: 5 July 2021.
- Harrison, Lorraine. “Dracontomelon dao.” In: Flora of China, vol. 11. Science Press, Beijing and Missouri Botanical Garden Press, St. Louis. 2008. pp. 495–496.
- Wu, Delin and Raven, Peter H. “Dracontomelon.” In: Flora of China, vol. 11. Science Press, Beijing and Missouri Botanical Garden Press, St. Louis. 2008. pp. 495–496.
