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Description
Fissistigma Oldhamii, also known as the Oldham’s Fissistigma, is a species of flowering plant in the family Annonaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Taiwan, where it is commonly found in mountain forests. This plant is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 10 meters tall. Its leaves are ovate to elliptic, leathery, and glossy, measuring up to 25cm long and 12cm wide. Fissistigma Oldhamii produces small, yellowish-green flowers that bloom in clusters from the axils of the leaves. These flowers are followed by oblong, fleshy fruits that turn purplish-black when ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Annonaceae |
| Genus | Fissistigma |
Appearance
Fissistigma Oldhamii is a beautiful evergreen tree with a dense, rounded canopy. Its leaves are glossy, leathery, and dark green, measuring up to 25cm long and 12cm wide. The tree produces small, yellowish-green flowers that bloom in clusters from the axils of the leaves. These flowers give way to oblong, fleshy fruits that turn purplish-black when they are ripe. The fruits are edible, but they are not commonly consumed. The bark of Fissistigma Oldhamii is grayish-brown and smooth when young, but it becomes rough and fissured as the tree ages.
Care Guide
Fissistigma Oldhamii is a low-maintenance plant, but it does require some care to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful tree:
Water: Fissistigma Oldhamii prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water the tree regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize Fissistigma Oldhamii in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for best results.
Soil: This tree prefers rich, well-draining soil. If your soil is poor, amend it with organic matter before planting.
Sunlight: Fissistigma Oldhamii prefers partial shade to full sun. However, it can tolerate some shade, especially in the hot afternoon hours.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fissistigma Oldhamii is generally a healthy and hardy plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common problems to watch out for:
Pests: The most common pests that attack this tree are scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Diseases: Fissistigma Oldhamii can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Fissistigma Oldhamii is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Taiwan, where it is commonly found in mountain forests. This tree prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. It is a low-maintenance plant that can tolerate some neglect.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Fissistigma Oldhamii a fast-growing tree?
A: No, Fissistigma Oldhamii is a slow-growing tree that can take several years to reach its full height.
Q: Can I grow Fissistigma Oldhamii in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow this tree in a container, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the tree’s roots.
Q: Is Fissistigma Oldhamii a good tree for landscaping?
A: Yes, Fissistigma Oldhamii is a beautiful tree that can add interest and texture to a landscape.
Q: Is Fissistigma Oldhamii a drought-tolerant plant?
A: No, this tree prefers moist soil and cannot tolerate prolonged drought.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Fissistigma Oldhamii:
- Fissistigma balansae
- Fissistigma latifolium
- Fissistigma polyanthum
References
- “Fissistigma Oldhamii.” Plantz Africa. Accessed August 11, 2021. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantefg/fissistigmaoldham.htm.
- “Fissistigma Oldhamii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 11, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a564.
- “Fissistigma Oldhamii.” Gardening Know How. Accessed August 11, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/fissistigma-oldhamii/fissistigma-oldhamii-care.htm.
