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Description
Fordia Cauliflora, also known as the Titi or Leatherwood, is a small tree that belongs to the family Clusiaceae. It is native to the southeastern United States, where it can be found growing in wetlands, swamps, and floodplains. The Titi tree can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, and it is known for its fragrant flowers that bloom in early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Clusiaceae |
| Genus | Fordia |
Appearance
The Titi tree has a distinctive appearance with its thick, leathery leaves that are dark green and glossy. The leaves can grow up to 5 inches long and 2 inches wide. The tree also produces fragrant, white or pink flowers that bloom in clusters in early spring. The fruit of the Titi tree is a small, black drupe that ripens in the fall.
Care Guide
Water: The Titi tree prefers moist soil and can tolerate occasional flooding.Fertilization: The Titi tree does not require regular fertilization, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring.Soil: The Titi tree prefers acidic, well-drained soil.Sunlight: The Titi tree prefers partial to full shade.Hardiness Zones: The Titi tree is hardy in USDA Zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Titi tree is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly-drained soil. Insects such as scales and aphids may infest the tree, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
The Titi tree is native to the southeastern United States, where it can be found growing in wetlands, swamps, and floodplains. It is a valuable plant for wildlife, providing food and shelter for various species of birds and mammals.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Titi tree drought-tolerant?A: The Titi tree prefers moist soil and is not drought-tolerant.Q: How often should I water my Titi tree?A: The Titi tree prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods.Q: Can the Titi tree be grown in a container?A: The Titi tree can be grown in a container, but it will require frequent watering and fertilization.Q: When is the best time to prune my Titi tree?A: The best time to prune the Titi tree is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Clusiaceae family include:
- Garcinia mangostana
- Hypericum perforatum
- Clusia rosea
- Clusia hilariana
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=FOCA10
- https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FP/FP10900.pdf
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=FOCA10
