Contents
Description
Ptaeroxylon is a plant species found in Africa. It is commonly known as sneezewood due to its ability to produce a strong, irritant scent when cut or burned. The plant is characterized by its dark brown to reddish-brown heartwood, which is highly valued for its durability and resistance to decay. The bark of the plant is rough and fissured, with a reddish-brown to grey-brown color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Tracheophyta|| Class| Magnoliopsida|| Order| Sapindales || Family| Rutaceae|| Genus| Ptaeroxylon|
Appearance
Ptaeroxylon is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a length of 7-10 cm and a width of 3-5 cm. The flowers are small and white, with a diameter of 4-5 mm. The fruit is a spherical capsule, 3-4 cm in diameter, with three to four segments containing small, black seeds.
Care Guide
Ptaeroxylon requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. It prefers well-drained soil and should be fertilized once a year with a balanced fertilizer. The plant requires full sunlight to grow properly and is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ptaeroxylon is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including scale insects, spider mites, and root rot. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can help prevent infestations.
Habitat
Ptaeroxylon is native to southern Africa and can be found in various habitats, including savannas, woodlands, and forests. The plant is also cultivated for its wood, which is used in construction and furniture making.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the common name of Ptaeroxylon?
A: The common name of Ptaeroxylon is sneezewood.
Q: What is the height of a mature Ptaeroxylon tree?
A: A mature Ptaeroxylon tree can grow up to 20 meters tall.
Q: What is the preferred soil type for Ptaeroxylon?
A: Ptaeroxylon prefers well-drained soil.
Q: What is the significance of Ptaeroxylon’s heartwood?
A: Ptaeroxylon’s heartwood is highly valued for its durability and resistance to decay.
Related Plants
– Zanthoxylum capense- Vepris lanceolata- Toddalia asiatica- Clausena anisata
References
– “Ptaeroxylon obliquum,” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute.- “Ptaeroxylon obliquum,” World Agroforestry Centre.- “Ptaeroxylon obliquum,” Useful Tropical Plants.
