Contents
Description
Pisonia Aculeata, commonly known as the Devil’s Claw or the Catchbird Tree, is a species of flowering plant in the family Nyctaginaceae. It is a tropical tree that is native to many islands in the Pacific and Indian Oceans, including Hawaii, Fiji, and Madagascar. The plant can grow up to 20 meters in height and its trunk can reach up to 50 centimeters in diameter. It features a smooth, grey bark and produces small, greenish-white flowers that are followed by sticky fruit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Nyctaginaceae |
| Genus | Pisonia |
Appearance
The leaves of Pisonia Aculeata are large, glossy, and dark green. They grow in clusters at the end of the branches, giving the tree a full and bushy appearance. The flowers are small and grow in clusters as well, and are followed by sticky fruit that can cause irritation to the skin upon contact. The tree’s roots are shallow and can often be seen growing above ground.
Care Guide
Pisonia Aculeata can be grown in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil. The plant should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater it as this can lead to root rot. It should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pisonia Aculeata is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. To prevent these pests, the plant should be regularly inspected and treated with an insecticide if necessary.
Habitat
Pisonia Aculeata is native to many islands in the Pacific and Indian Oceans and can be found growing in tropical and subtropical regions. It is commonly found near the coast and can grow in sandy or rocky soil. The tree is often used as a shade tree in parks and gardens, but it can also be found growing in the wild.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pisonia Aculeata be grown indoors?
A: While Pisonia Aculeata can be grown indoors, it is not recommended as it requires a lot of space to grow and can become quite large.
Q: Is Pisonia Aculeata poisonous?
A: While the fruit of Pisonia Aculeata can cause skin irritation, the plant itself is not poisonous to humans or animals.
Q: How often should Pisonia Aculeata be fertilized?
A: Pisonia Aculeata should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Pisonia Aculeata be planted in a container?
A: While Pisonia Aculeata can be planted in a container, it requires a large container and plenty of space to grow.
Related Plants
- Pisonia Umbellifera
- Pisonia Grandis
- Pisonia Subcordata
References
- Govaerts, R. (2019). Pisonia Aculeata. Plants of the World Online. Kew Science.
- Holliday, I. (2004). A Field Guide to the Common Trees and Shrubs of Sri Lanka. Colombo: Wildlife Heritage Trust.
- Wagner, W. L., Herbst, D. R., & Sohmer, S. H. (1999). Manual of the Flowering Plants of Hawaii (Revised ed.). Honolulu: University of Hawaii Press.
