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Description
Erythrophleum Fordii, commonly known as the African Cherry, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the tropical regions of Africa, including Nigeria, Cameroon, and Ghana. The tree can grow up to 40 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 1.5 meters. The bark is dark brown, rough, and deeply fissured. The leaves are pinnate, with 6-8 pairs of leaflets that are oblong and pointed at the tip. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and appear in clusters. The fruit is a large pod that contains several seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Erythrophleum |
Appearance
Erythrophleum Fordii has a distinct appearance with its dark brown bark and pinnate leaves. The bark is rough and deeply fissured, providing a good grip for climbing animals. The leaves are glossy and dark green, with 6-8 pairs of oblong leaflets that are pointed at the tip. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, and appear in clusters. The fruit is a large pod that contains several seeds. The tree can grow up to 40 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 1.5 meters.
Care Guide
Erythrophleum Fordii requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun or partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant grows well in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erythrophleum Fordii is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and stunted growth. Use neem oil to control them.- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots and defoliation. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Erythrophleum Fordii is native to the tropical regions of Africa, including Nigeria, Cameroon, and Ghana. It prefers to grow in well-drained soils in full sun or partial shade. The tree is commonly found in tropical rainforests, but can also grow in savannas and riverine forests.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Erythrophleum Fordii an endangered species?
A: Yes, the plant is listed as endangered due to habitat loss and overexploitation for its timber.
Q: Can Erythrophleum Fordii be grown in a container?
A: No, the plant is too large to be grown in a container.
Q: What is the timber of Erythrophleum Fordii used for?
A: The timber is used for furniture, flooring, and construction.
Q: Is Erythrophleum Fordii a fast-growing tree?
A: No, the tree grows at a moderate rate of about 1-2 feet per year.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Erythrophleum Fordii:- Erythrophleum suaveolens- Erythrophleum ivorense- Erythrophleum chlorostachys- Erythrophleum africanum
References
– “Erythrophleum Fordii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 21 Sep. 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287568&isprofile=0&basic=Erythrophleum%20fordii.- “Erythrophleum Fordii.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed 21 Sep. 2021. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantefg/erythrophleumfordii.htm.- “Erythrophleum Fordii.” World Agroforestry Centre. Accessed 21 Sep. 2021. https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/speciesprofile.php?Spid=1653.
