Contents
Description
Neoshirakia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Annonaceae, native to Southeast Asia. It includes only one species, Neoshirakia affinis, commonly known as the yellow flower tree. This tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a straight trunk with gray or brown bark. Its leaves are glossy and dark green, and its flowers are yellow and fragrant. The fruit of Neoshirakia affinis is round and has a diameter of around 2.5 cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Annonaceae |
| Genus | Neoshirakia |
Appearance
The Neoshirakia tree has a straight trunk with gray or brown bark that can reach a diameter of up to 60 cm. Its leaves are oval-shaped, glossy, and dark green, with a length of 8-25 cm and a width of 4-10 cm. The flowers of Neoshirakia affinis are yellow, fragrant, and have a diameter of 4-6 cm. The fruit of this tree is round, has a diameter of around 2.5 cm, and is green when unripe, turning yellow when ripe.
Care Guide
Neoshirakia is a low-maintenance tree that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your Neoshirakia:
- Water: Water your Neoshirakia tree regularly, especially during the dry season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Neoshirakia tree with a balanced fertilizer once in the spring and once in the fall.
- Soil: Plant your Neoshirakia tree in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Neoshirakia thrives in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Neoshirakia can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Neoshirakia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:
- Scale insects: These insects can suck sap from the leaves, causing them to yellow and drop prematurely.
- Nematodes: These small worms can cause root damage, leading to stunted growth and eventual death of the tree.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots and defoliation.
Habitat
Neoshirakia is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows in tropical and subtropical forests. It prefers well-drained soils and can grow in areas with an annual rainfall of 1000-3000 mm.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Neoshirakia an ornamental tree?
A: Yes, Neoshirakia is often grown as an ornamental tree for its yellow flowers and glossy leaves.
Q: Can Neoshirakia grow in containers?
A: Yes, Neoshirakia can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the root system and the tree is given adequate care.
Q: Is Neoshirakia a fast-growing tree?
A: No, Neoshirakia is a slow-growing tree that can take several years to reach maturity.
Q: Can Neoshirakia tolerate drought?
A: No, Neoshirakia requires regular watering and cannot tolerate prolonged drought.
Related Plants
- Annona cherimola (Cherimoya)
- Annona muricata (Soursop)
- Annona reticulata (Custard Apple)
References
- Bernal, R., & Galeano, G. (2016). Neoshirakia. Annonaceae. Flora de Colombia, 30(1), 1-8.
- Heywood, V. H., Brummitt, R. K., Culham, A., & Seberg, O. (Eds.). (2007). Flowering plant families of the world. Firefly Books.
- Mabberley, D. J. (2017). Mabberley’s plant-book: a portable dictionary of plants, their classification and uses. Cambridge University Press.
