Contents
Description
Antiaris Toxicaria, also known as Upas Tree, is a large evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia and Australia. It belongs to the Moraceae family and is known for its highly toxic sap that has been used for centuries for hunting and execution purposes. The tree can grow up to 40 meters tall with a trunk diameter of up to 2 meters. Its bark is brownish-gray and rough, while its leaves are alternate, simple, and oblong, with a length of 10-25 cm and a width of 5-12 cm. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that are pollinated by the wind and develop into small, round fruits that contain a single seed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Antiaris |
Appearance
Antiaris Toxicaria is a large, tall, and evergreen tree with a straight trunk and dense foliage. Its bark is rough and brownish-gray, while its leaves are oblong, alternate, and simple, with a length of 10-25 cm and a width of 5-12 cm. The leaves are dark green and glossy on the upper side and lighter and dull on the lower side. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that are not showy but are pollinated by the wind. The fruits are small, round, and contain a single seed.
Care Guide
Antiaris Toxicaria is a low-maintenance tree that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-drained. The tree should be watered regularly during the growing season, especially during hot and dry periods. Fertilization is not necessary but can be beneficial for young trees. The tree is hardy to USDA zones 10-12 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 30°F (-1°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
Antiaris Toxicaria is generally free from pests and diseases, but it can be affected by a few common issues. The most common pests that attack the tree are scales, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled by spraying the tree with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The tree can also be affected by leaf spot and root rot, which are caused by fungal infections. These diseases can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and providing good air circulation around the tree.
Habitat
Antiaris Toxicaria is native to Southeast Asia and Australia and is commonly found in lowland rainforests, river valleys, and swamps. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The tree is also known to grow in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and abandoned agricultural lands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Antiaris Toxicaria safe to grow in residential areas?
A: No, Antiaris Toxicaria is highly toxic and should not be grown in residential areas.
Q: What is the use of Antiaris Toxicaria’s toxic sap?
A: Antiaris Toxicaria’s toxic sap has been used for hunting and execution purposes for centuries.
Q: How tall can Antiaris Toxicaria grow?
A: Antiaris Toxicaria can grow up to 40 meters tall.
Q: What is the hardiness zone of Antiaris Toxicaria?
A: Antiaris Toxicaria is hardy to USDA zones 10-12.
Related Plants
- Morus alba (White Mulberry)
- Ficus benjamina (Weeping Fig)
- Ficus elastica (Rubber Tree)
- Celestrus paniculatus (Intellect Tree)
References
- Govaerts, R., & Frodin, D. G. (1998). World checklist and bibliography of Ficus (Moraceae). Kew: Royal Botanic Gardens.
- Nguyen, Q. T., & Le, N. T. (2011). Antiaris toxicaria: a review. Journal of medicinal plants research, 5(13), 2660-2667.
- Staples, G. W., & Kristiansen, M. S. (1999). Flora of Tropical East Africa: Moraceae. CRC Press.
