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Description
Endotropis Crocea Subsp. Crocea, commonly known as the Yellowwood, is a slow-growing evergreen tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. The tree can grow up to a height of 6-15 meters, has a straight trunk, and a dense, rounded, and symmetrical crown.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Endotropis |
Appearance
The Yellowwood has a smooth, grey bark that becomes rough and scaly with age. The leaves are dark green, leathery, and glossy, with a length of 50-100 mm and a width of 20-40 mm. The tree produces fragrant, creamy white, pea-like flowers that appear in late winter or early spring. The fruit is a flat, woody pod that contains 1-2 seeds.
Care Guide
The Yellowwood requires moderate watering, with the soil being kept slightly moist. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilize the tree with a balanced slow-release fertilizer twice a year, in early spring and late summer. The tree grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Yellowwood may be susceptible to pests such as mites, scale insects, and aphids. It may also be affected by root rot, canker, and leaf spot diseases. Regular monitoring and timely treatment with appropriate insecticides and fungicides can prevent and control these issues.
Habitat
The Yellowwood is native to the eastern and southern parts of South Africa, where it grows in forests, along riverbanks, and in mountainous areas. It prefers a moderate climate with abundant rainfall and well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take for a Yellowwood tree to grow to its full height?
A: The Yellowwood is a slow-growing tree and may take up to 20 years to reach its full height.
Q: Can the Yellowwood tree be grown in a container?
A: The Yellowwood tree is not suitable for growing in a container as it prefers a deep and wide root space.
Q: Is the Yellowwood tree drought-tolerant?
A: No, the Yellowwood tree requires moderate watering and is not drought-tolerant.
Q: Can the Yellowwood tree be propagated from seeds?
A: Yes, the Yellowwood tree can be propagated from seeds. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Endotropis Racemosa
- Endotropis Pseudocrocea
- Endotropis Sarcocarpa
References
- “Endotropis crocea subsp. crocea.” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 16 June 2021. <http://pza.sanbi.org/endotropis-crocea-subsp-crocea>.
- “Endotropis crocea.” PlantNet. National Museum of Natural History, n.d. Web. 16 June 2021. <https://science.mnhn.fr/taxon/species/endotropis/crocea/subspecies/crocea>.
- “Endotropis crocea.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, n.d. Web. 16 June 2021. <http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=320186>.
