Pappea

Description

Pappea is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Sapindaceae. It is a small genus of only two species, which are native to Africa. Pappea capensis is commonly known as the Jacket Plum, while Pappea pauciflora is known as the Butterstick. Both species are known for their distinctive fruit, which is used in traditional medicine and is also edible.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Pappea capensis and Pappea pauciflora are both small trees that can reach up to 10 meters in height. They have a round crown and a straight trunk. The leaves are pinnate, with 5-7 leaflets that are 3-5 cm long. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, and they bloom in late winter to early spring. The fruit is a large, round, brownish-yellow drupe that is 3-4 cm in diameter. The fruit is edible, with a sweet and sour taste.

Care Guide

Pappea plants are hardy and do not require much care. They prefer a well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. They can tolerate full sun to partial shade. Watering should be done regularly during the growing season, but the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilization should be done once a year in the spring. Pappea plants are hardy to USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Pappea plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-draining. Scale insects and mealybugs can also infest Pappea plants, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

Pappea capensis is native to South Africa, where it grows in savannas and woodlands. Pappea pauciflora is native to Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, where it grows in dry forests and woodlands.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Pappea capensis edible?

A: Yes, the fruit of Pappea capensis is edible, with a sweet and sour taste.

Q: What are the common pests of Pappea plants?

A: Scale insects and mealybugs can infest Pappea plants.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pappea plants?

A: Pappea plants are hardy to USDA zones 9-11.

Q: Where is Pappea pauciflora native to?

A: Pappea pauciflora is native to Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

Related Plants

• Sapindus
• Acer
• Koelreuteria
• Litchi

References

• “Pappea capensis.” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 20 July 2021.
• “Pappea pauciflora.” Flora of Zimbabwe. n.d. Web. 20 July 2021.
• “Pappea.” The Plant List. n.d. Web. 20 July 2021.