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Description
Lecythis Minor is a species of flowering tree belonging to the Lecythidaceae family. It is also known as the “Monkey Pot Tree” due to the shape of its fruit, which resembles a monkey’s head. The tree is native to South America and is known for its unique and stunning appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Lecythidaceae |
| Genus | Lecythis |
Appearance
The Lecythis Minor tree can grow up to 20 meters in height and has a wide, spreading canopy. Its leaves are large and oblong, and the tree produces beautiful white or pink flowers that can grow up to 10 cm in diameter. The fruit of the tree is large and woody, with a diameter of up to 15 cm. The fruit is shaped like a monkey’s head, with a hard outer shell that can be cracked open to reveal edible nuts inside.
Care Guide
The Lecythis Minor tree prefers well-draining soil and requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. It is also important to fertilize the tree regularly with a balanced fertilizer. The tree thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lecythis Minor tree is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. It is important to keep the tree well-ventilated and to remove any infected leaves or branches promptly to prevent the spread of disease.
Habitat
The Lecythis Minor tree is native to the rainforests of South America, where it grows in moist, well-draining soil. The tree is often found near rivers and streams and thrives in humid conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the fruit of the Lecythis Minor tree edible?
A: Yes, the fruit of the Lecythis Minor tree is edible. The hard outer shell can be cracked open to reveal edible nuts inside.
Q: How tall can the Lecythis Minor tree grow?
A: The Lecythis Minor tree can grow up to 20 meters in height.
Q: What is the hard outer shell of the Lecythis Minor fruit called?
A: The hard outer shell of the Lecythis Minor fruit is called a “monkey pot.”
Q: What is the ideal growing zone for the Lecythis Minor tree?
A: The Lecythis Minor tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Related Plants
- Lecythis pisonis
- Lecythis zabucajo
- Lecythis lanceolata
References
- “Lecythis Minor.” Plantz Africa, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/lecythisminor.htm.
- “Lecythis Minor.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=289007.
