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Description
Falcataria Moluccana, also known as the Moluccan sau or the albizia tree, is a fast-growing deciduous tree that belongs to the pea family. It is native to the Moluccas and Papua New Guinea. This tree has become widespread in tropical countries, and it is often grown as an ornamental tree or used for its valuable timber. The tree can grow up to 30 meters tall, with a straight trunk that measures up to 60 centimeters in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Falcataria |
Appearance
The Falcataria Moluccana has a broad, spreading canopy that provides ample shade. Its leaves are bipinnate, meaning they have two sets of leaflets arranged opposite each other along a central axis. The leaves are green and feathery, measuring up to 50 centimeters long. The tree produces small, creamy-white flowers that are arranged in clusters, and these are followed by brown seed pods that measure up to 20 centimeters long.
Care Guide
When caring for the Falcataria Moluccana, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and to consider the hardiness zones in which it is grown.
Water: The tree requires consistent moisture, especially during hot and dry periods. It is important to avoid over-watering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: The tree benefits from regular fertilization, especially during its growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Soil: The tree grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It tolerates a wide range of soils, including sandy and clay soils.
Sunlight: The Falcataria Moluccana grows best in full sun, although it can tolerate partial shade in hot climates.
Hardiness Zones: The tree can tolerate a wide range of climates, from tropical to subtropical. It is hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Falcataria Moluccana is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal infections, such as root rot and leaf spots. The tree can also attract termites, which can cause damage to its wood.
Habitat
The Falcataria Moluccana is native to the Moluccas and Papua New Guinea, although it has become widespread in tropical countries. It grows best in warm, humid climates with consistent rainfall. The tree is often grown as an ornamental tree in parks and along streets, and it is also used for its valuable timber.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Falcataria Moluccana invasive?
A: The tree is not considered invasive, although it can spread quickly in favorable environments.
Q: Can the tree tolerate drought?
A: The tree requires consistent moisture, and it is not tolerant of drought conditions.
Q: Can the tree be grown in containers?
A: The tree can be grown in containers when young, although it will eventually outgrow its container.
Q: Is the Falcataria Moluccana toxic to animals?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that the tree is toxic to animals.
Related Plants
- Falcataria toonaefolia
- Falcataria moluccana ‘JLB Smith’
- Albizia julibrissin
- Albizia odoratissima
References
- https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/speciesprofile.php?Spid=518
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/albizia/albizia-tree-care.htm
- https://www.tropicalbritain.co.uk/falcataria-moluccana.html
