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Description
Ptaeroxylon obliquum, commonly known as Sneezewood or Witpeer, is a medium to large-sized tree that is native to southern Africa. It belongs to the family of Ptaeroxylaceae, and it is known for its unique properties and characteristics. The tree is a common sight in many parts of southern Africa, and it is highly valued for its hard, durable wood. It has a straight trunk, a rounded crown, and a dense, spreading canopy that provides ample shade.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Ptaeroxylaceae |
| Genus | Ptaeroxylon |
Appearance
The Sneezewood tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a trunk diameter of up to 0.6 meters. The bark is rough, dark brown, and deeply fissured. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate to elliptic in shape, with a glossy green upper surface and a paler, duller underside. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and borne in dense, axillary clusters. The fruit is a woody capsule that splits open when ripe, releasing numerous small, brown seeds.
Care Guide
The Sneezewood tree is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering during the dry season. Fertilization is not usually necessary but can be applied sparingly in the spring. Sneezewood is hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sneezewood tree is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot if grown in poorly-drained soil or in humid conditions. It can also be attacked by various insects, including scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites.
Habitat
The Sneezewood tree is native to southern Africa and is found in a variety of habitats, including savannas, woodlands, and forests. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure, but can also tolerate partial shade. It is a hardy plant that can withstand drought and is commonly used in reforestation projects.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the Sneezewood tree used for?
A: The Sneezewood tree is highly valued for its hard, durable wood, which is used for furniture, flooring, and construction.
Q: Is the Sneezewood tree an endangered species?
A: No, the Sneezewood tree is not considered an endangered species.
Q: Can the Sneezewood tree be grown as a houseplant?
A: No, the Sneezewood tree is not suitable for indoor growing and is best grown in its natural habitat.
Q: Is the Sneezewood tree poisonous?
A: No, the Sneezewood tree is not poisonous.
Related Plants
- Ptaeroxylon utile
- Ptaeroxylon obliquum
- Ptaeroxylon obliquum subsp. obliquum
- Ptaeroxylon obliquum subsp. macrocarpum
References
- “Ptaeroxylon obliquum (Sneezewood).” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute. Accessed 18 May 2021. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantnop/ptaeroxobliq.htm.
- “Ptaeroxylon obliquum.” The Global Trees Campaign. Accessed 18 May 2021. https://globaltrees.org/threatened-trees/trees/ptaeroxylon-obliquum/.
- “Ptaeroxylon obliquum.” Tree Atlas of Namibia. Accessed 18 May 2021. http://www.tree-atlas.org/species/Ptaeroxylon-obliquum.
