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Description
Pterolobium Punctatum, also known as the wing-podded corkwood, is a flowering plant belonging to the legume family. This plant is native to southern Africa, specifically in the countries of Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa. It is often found in dry savannas, rocky hillsides, and open woodlands.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Pterolobium |
Appearance
Pterolobium Punctatum grows up to 6 meters tall with a trunk diameter of up to 45 cm. The leaves are compound with 2-4 pairs of leaflets, each about 2-6 cm long. The flowers are small, white or cream colored, and grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a long, narrow, and winged pod that can reach up to 20 cm in length.
Care Guide
Pterolobium Punctatum is a low maintenance plant that thrives in warm and dry climates. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: This plant is drought tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils.
- Sunlight: Pterolobium Punctatum thrives in full sun and can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pterolobium Punctatum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soils. In addition, aphids and spider mites may occasionally infest the plant.
Habitat
Pterolobium Punctatum is native to southern Africa and is often found in dry savannas, rocky hillsides, and open woodlands. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and high temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pterolobium Punctatum be grown indoors?
A: No, this plant is best grown outdoors in warm and dry climates.
Q: What is the best time to prune Pterolobium Punctatum?
A: Prune this plant in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Q: How often should I fertilize Pterolobium Punctatum?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year during the growing season.
Q: Is Pterolobium Punctatum poisonous?
A: No, this plant is not known to be toxic to humans or animals.
Related Plants
- Pterolobium Stellatum
- Pterolobium Hexapetalum
- Pterolobium Inconspicuum
References
- Johnson, D. (2012). Pterolobium Punctatum. PlantZAfrica. Retrieved from https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantnop/pterolpunct.htm
- Kew Science Plants of the World Online. (n.d.). Pterolobium Punctatum. Retrieved from http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:516347-1
- Palgrave, K. (2002). Trees of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers.
