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Description
Peltophorum Africanum, also known as the African Yellowwood Tree, is a beautiful deciduous tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Africa and can grow up to 20 meters tall, with a spread of 10 meters. The tree has a single trunk with a dense, rounded crown that is covered in a smooth, grey bark. During the flowering season, the tree is covered in bright yellow flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Peltophorum |
Appearance
The African Yellowwood Tree has a dense, rounded crown with a smooth, grey bark. The leaves are pinnately compound with 8-12 pairs of leaflets that are oblong in shape. The tree produces bright yellow flowers that are up to 2.5 cm in diameter and are arranged in dense clusters. The flowers bloom in late spring and early summer and are followed by long, flat seed pods that are up to 30 cm in length.
Care Guide
Water: The African Yellowwood Tree prefers a well-drained soil and requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Fertilization: The tree requires regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Soil: The African Yellowwood Tree prefers a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Sunlight: The tree requires full sunlight to grow and should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Hardiness Zones: The African Yellowwood Tree can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9a-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The African Yellowwood Tree is relatively pest and disease free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained.
Habitat
The African Yellowwood Tree is native to Africa and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, savannas, and grasslands. It prefers a warm, humid climate and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the African Yellowwood Tree be grown in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow the African Yellowwood Tree in containers, it is not recommended as the tree can grow quite large and requires a lot of space to thrive.Q: How often should I fertilize my African Yellowwood Tree?
A: The tree should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: Does the African Yellowwood Tree require pruning?
A: The tree does not require pruning, but can be pruned to maintain its shape or to remove any dead or damaged branches.Q: Can the African Yellowwood Tree tolerate frost?
A: The tree is not frost tolerant and should be protected from frost in colder climates.
Related Plants
- Peltophorum pterocarpum
- Peltophorum dubium
- Peltophorum ferrugineum
- Peltophorum africanum
References
- “Peltophorum africanum.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantnop/peltophafri.htm.
- “Peltophorum africanum.” South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.sanbi.org/plant-of-the-week/peltophorum-africanum/.
- “Peltophorum africanum.” Trees for Life, www.treesforlife.org.uk/into-the-forest/trees-plants-animals/trees/peltophorum-africanum/.
