Kandelia

Description

Kandelia is a genus of mangrove plant that is commonly found in coastal ecosystems. It belongs to the family Rhizophoraceae and is known for its ability to withstand harsh coastal conditions. Kandelia is also an important plant for stabilizing coastlines and providing habitat for a variety of organisms.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Kandelia is a small to medium-sized mangrove tree that can grow up to 10 meters tall. It has thin, smooth, grey-brown bark and a dense, rounded crown. The leaves are dark green and glossy, and are oval-shaped with a pointed tip. Kandelia produces small, fragrant flowers that are yellow or white in color. The fruit is a small, round, green capsule that turns brown when mature.

Care Guide

Kandelia requires specific care to thrive in coastal environments. Here are some tips:

• Water: Kandelia requires regular watering, but can tolerate periods of drought.
• Fertilization: Fertilize Kandelia with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer.
• Soil: Kandelia prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Kandelia requires full sun to partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Kandelia can grow in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Kandelia is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:

• Mangrove scale: This insect can cause leaf yellowing and dieback.
• Mangrove caterpillars: These insects can defoliate Kandelia trees.
• Fungal leaf spot: This disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves.
• Root rot: This disease can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage.

Habitat

Kandelia is found in mangrove forests along the coasts of southeast Asia, from India to Australia. It prefers sheltered areas with brackish water that is not too salty or too fresh. Kandelia is an important plant for stabilizing coastlines and providing habitat for a variety of organisms, including crabs, fish, and birds.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the importance of Kandelia in coastal ecosystems?

A: Kandelia is important for stabilizing coastlines and providing habitat for a variety of organisms, including crabs, fish, and birds.

Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Kandelia?

A: Common pests and diseases that affect Kandelia include mangrove scale, mangrove caterpillars, fungal leaf spot, and root rot.

Q: What are the care requirements for Kandelia?

A: Kandelia requires regular watering, fertilization, a well-draining soil, full sun to partial shade, and can grow in USDA zones 9-11.

Q: Where is Kandelia found?

A: Kandelia is found in mangrove forests along the coasts of southeast Asia, from India to Australia.

Related Plants

• Rhizophora
• Avicennia
• Sonneratia
• Bruguiera
• Ceriops

References

• “Kandelia.” Global Invasive Species Database, 2021, www.iucngisd.org/gisd/species.php?sc=1379.
• “Kandelia obovata.” Plants of the World Online, 2021, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:77138447-1.
• “Kandelia.” Flora of China, vol. 13, 2007, pp. 45–47., www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=115986.