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Description
Amherstia is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family, Fabaceae. It is a small genus consisting of only one species, Amherstia nobilis, which is commonly known as the Pride of Burma or the Amherstia tree. This tree is native to Burma (Myanmar) and is a popular ornamental tree in tropical and subtropical regions.The Amherstia tree is prized for its beautiful flowers, which bloom in clusters of drooping, bright red to pink petals. The blossoms are large, showy, and resemble orchids, with a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators. The tree also has attractive foliage, with glossy, dark green leaves that are arranged alternately on the branches.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus ||——–|———|——–|——-|——-|——–|——-|| Eukarya | Plantae | Spermatophyta | Magnoliopsida | Fabales | Fabaceae | Amherstia |
Appearance
The Amherstia tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a slender trunk with smooth, gray bark. Its branches are thin and droopy, giving the tree a graceful appearance. The tree produces large, showy flowers that bloom in clusters from late spring to early summer. The petals are bright red to pink in color, with a yellow center, and have a waxy texture. The flowers are followed by long, brown pods that contain seeds.The tree has glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and pointed at the tip. The leaves are arranged alternately on the branches and are about 15-30 centimeters long. The leaves are deciduous, meaning they fall off in the winter months.
Care Guide
Amherstia is a tree that requires specific care to thrive. Here are some tips to help you care for your Amherstia tree:- Water: The Amherstia tree requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. It prefers well-drained soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering or letting the soil dry out completely.- Fertilization: Fertilize your Amherstia tree with a balanced fertilizer every spring and summer. This will help promote healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: The Amherstia tree prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It does not tolerate heavy clay soils or soils that are waterlogged.- Sunlight: The Amherstia tree prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not flower as well.- Hardiness Zones: Amherstia is a tropical tree that is not cold hardy. It can only be grown outdoors in USDA zones 10 and 11. In colder zones, it can be grown in a greenhouse or as a houseplant.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Amherstia tree is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the leaves and cause discoloration and webbing.- Scale insects: These pests can attach themselves to the leaves and suck sap from the tree, causing yellowing and wilting.- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots and defoliation.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poor drainage and can cause the tree to wilt and die.To prevent these pests and diseases, make sure to keep your Amherstia tree healthy and stress-free by providing it with proper care and growing conditions.
Habitat
The Amherstia tree is native to Burma (Myanmar) and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia. It grows in lowland rainforests and prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Amherstia tree be grown in a container?A: Yes, the Amherstia tree can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with proper care and growing conditions.Q: How long does it take for the Amherstia tree to bloom?A: The Amherstia tree typically blooms in its third or fourth year of growth.Q: Does the Amherstia tree attract bees?A: Yes, the Amherstia tree attracts bees and other pollinators with its sweet fragrance.Q: Is the Amherstia tree poisonous?A: No, the Amherstia tree is not poisonous.
Related Plants
– Bauhinia- Cassia- Delonix- Jacaranda- Tabebuia
References
– “Amherstia nobilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 8, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d328.- “Amherstia nobilis.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed July 8, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16685/Amherstia-nobilis/Details.- “Amherstia nobilis (Pride of Burma).” Dave’s Garden. Accessed July 8, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/52568/.
