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Description
Pseudotsuga Macrocarpa, also known as the Bigcone Douglas-fir, is a coniferous tree that belongs to the Pinaceae family. This tree is native to Southern California and Baja California and is named for its large cones, which can grow up to 14 inches long. It is a slow-growing tree that can reach heights of up to 100 feet and has a lifespan of around 500 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Pseudotsuga |
Appearance
The Pseudotsuga Macrocarpa has a conical shape and a straight trunk that can grow up to 4 feet in diameter. The bark is gray-brown and is covered in resin blisters. The needles are 1-2 inches long and are light green to blue-green in color. The cones are the most distinctive feature of this tree, with a length of up to 14 inches and a diameter of up to 6 inches. The cones have a unique shape, with curved bracts that protrude from the scales.
Care Guide
Watering should be done regularly, especially during the summer months. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring and fall to promote growth. The soil should be well-draining and slightly acidic. Pseudotsuga Macrocarpa prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is hardy in zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pseudotsuga Macrocarpa can be affected by pests such as aphids, mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The tree can also be affected by diseases such as root rot and needle blight. These diseases can be prevented by keeping the soil well-drained and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The Pseudotsuga Macrocarpa is native to Southern California and Baja California, where it grows in dry, rocky soils in mountainous areas. It is often found at elevations between 3,500 and 8,000 feet.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pseudotsuga Macrocarpa drought tolerant?
A: Yes, it can tolerate some drought once established.
Q: How fast does Pseudotsuga Macrocarpa grow?
A: It is a slow-growing tree.
Q: Can Pseudotsuga Macrocarpa be grown in containers?
A: It is not recommended to grow this tree in containers as it requires a lot of space for its roots to grow.
Q: Does Pseudotsuga Macrocarpa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it provides habitat for a variety of birds and small mammals.
Related Plants
- Pseudotsuga Menziesii (Douglas-fir)
- Pseudotsuga Lactiflora (Mexican Douglas-fir)
- Pseudotsuga Sinensis (Chinese Douglas-fir)
References
- “Pseudotsuga macrocarpa.” Flora of North America.
- “Bigcone Douglas-fir.” Theodore Payne Foundation.
- “Pseudotsuga macrocarpa.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
