Contents
Description
Platycarya is a genus of deciduous trees that belongs to the Juglandaceae family. Native to East Asia, Platycarya trees have a broad, rounded canopy and can grow up to 30 meters tall. It has dark green leaves that turn yellow in the fall and small flowers that bloom in spring. The Platycarya tree produces edible nuts that are consumed in China and Japan.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Juglandaceae |
| Genus | Platycarya |
Appearance
Platycarya trees have a broad, rounded canopy and can grow up to 30 meters tall. The tree has dark green leaves that are pinnately compound and measure up to 30 cm long. The leaves turn yellow in the fall before they drop. Platycarya produces small flowers that bloom in spring and have a greenish-yellow color. The tree produces edible nuts that are enclosed in a green husk that splits open when the nuts are ripe. The nuts are flattened and measure up to 3 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
Platycarya trees prefer moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. They are tolerant of a range of soil types but prefer slightly acidic soil. Platycarya trees require regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer to promote healthy growth. Platycarya trees are hardy to USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Platycarya trees are relatively pest-free, but they can be susceptible to aphids and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Platycarya trees may also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the tree and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Platycarya trees are native to East Asia, where they can be found in China, Japan, and Korea. They grow in a variety of habitats, including forests, riverbanks, and mountain slopes. Platycarya trees prefer moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Platycarya nuts edible?
A: Yes, Platycarya nuts are edible and are consumed in China and Japan.
Q: What is the ideal soil type for Platycarya trees?
A: Platycarya trees prefer slightly acidic, moist, well-drained soil.
Q: How tall can Platycarya trees grow?
A: Platycarya trees can grow up to 30 meters tall.
Q: What pests and diseases are Platycarya trees susceptible to?
A: Platycarya trees can be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
Related Plants
- Juglans regia
- Carya illinoinensis
- Carya ovata
- Juglans nigra
References
- “Platycarya.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c199.
- “Platycarya.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/83391/.
- “Platycarya.” Flora of China, www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=128563.
