Nephelium

Description

Nephelium is a genus of evergreen trees and shrubs belonging to the Sapindaceae family. These plants are native to Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. The fruit of Nephelium is an edible drupe with a fleshy aril, which is commonly known as rambutan.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Nephelium plants have glossy, dark green leaves that are alternate and pinnate. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, and they bloom in clusters. The fruit of Nephelium is a round to oval-shaped drupe, covered with a thick rind of red or yellow hair-like spines. The aril inside the fruit is translucent, white or pinkish, and juicy. The size of the fruit ranges from 3-6 cm in diameter.

Care Guide

Nephelium plants require regular watering, especially during the growing season. They also need well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilization should be done every 2-3 months, using a balanced fertilizer. Nephelium plants prefer full sun exposure but can also tolerate partial shade. They are hardy in USDA zones 10-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Nephelium plants are susceptible to pests such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled through regular spraying of insecticidal soap or neem oil. Diseases that affect Nephelium plants include root rot, anthracnose, and powdery mildew. These diseases can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and providing good air circulation around the plant.

Habitat

Nephelium plants are native to Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. They thrive in tropical climates with high humidity and rainfall. These plants can grow up to 20 meters in height and are found in both lowland and mountain forests.

Question and Answer

Q: How do I propagate Nephelium plants?

A: Nephelium plants can be propagated through seeds or by layering. The seeds should be sown immediately after harvesting, and they take about 3-4 weeks to germinate. Layering involves burying a branch of the plant into the soil, which will eventually root and form a new plant.

Q: Can Nephelium plants tolerate drought?

A: No, Nephelium plants require regular watering and cannot tolerate drought conditions.

Q: How often should I fertilize Nephelium plants?

A: Fertilization should be done every 2-3 months, using a balanced fertilizer.

Q: What is the best time to prune Nephelium plants?

A: Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring, before new growth appears.

Related Plants

• Litchi chinensis
• Dimocarpus longan
• Blighia sapida
• Cupania cinerea

References

• “Nephelium.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
• “Rambutan.” Purdue University Center for New Crops and Plant Products.
• “Nephelium lappaceum.” Flora of China, Missouri Botanical Garden.