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Description
Mallotus Apelta, also known as the Red Kamala Tree or Kamala Tree, is a species of flowering plant native to Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Mallotus |
Appearance
The Mallotus Apelta is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 10 meters in height. It has a straight trunk and a rounded crown, with branches that spread horizontally. The bark is brownish-gray and has a rough texture.
The leaves are large and oval-shaped, with a length of about 15-25 cm and a width of 10-15 cm. They are dark green in color and have a glossy texture. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, and they are clustered in panicles. The fruit is a capsule that contains small seeds.
Care Guide
The Mallotus Apelta requires regular care to thrive. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant:
Water: The plant needs to be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. However, make sure not to overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Mallotus Apelta is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to attacks by mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. It may also develop fungal diseases if exposed to damp conditions or overcrowding.
Habitat
The Mallotus Apelta is native to Southeast Asia, where it is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, scrublands, and grasslands.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Mallotus Apelta be grown indoors?
A: While it is possible to grow the plant indoors, it prefers full sun to partial shade and may not thrive in low-light conditions.
Q: How often should I fertilize the plant?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I control mealybugs on my Mallotus Apelta?
A: Mealybugs can be controlled by spraying the plant with a solution of water and dish soap or neem oil. You can also remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
Q: What is the best time to prune the Mallotus Apelta?
A: The plant should be pruned in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Mallotus Philippensis
- Mallotus Paniculatus
- Mallotus Villosus
References
- “Mallotus apelta.” Flora of China, www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=242329631. Accessed 23 Apr. 2021.
- “Mallotus apelta.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-117738. Accessed 23 Apr. 2021.
- “Kamala Tree.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/kamala-tree/kamala-tree-info.htm. Accessed 23 Apr. 2021.
