Retrophyllum

Description

Retrophyllum is a genus of evergreen coniferous trees that are native to the southern hemisphere. It belongs to the family Podocarpaceae, which is one of the oldest families of conifers. Retrophyllum trees are known for their beautiful foliage, which ranges from deep green to blue-green and can be needle-like or scale-like. They also produce small, fleshy cones that are typically red or purple in color.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Retrophyllum trees can grow up to 30 meters in height, but some species are smaller. They have a conical or columnar shape and a dense crown of foliage. The leaves can be needle-like or scale-like, depending on the species, and are arranged in a spiral pattern around the branches. The bark is usually smooth and gray or brown in color. Retrophyllum trees produce small, fleshy cones that are typically red or purple in color and contain one or two seeds.

Care Guide

Retrophyllum trees are relatively easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for Retrophyllum:

• Water: Retrophyllum trees prefer moist but well-draining soil. Water them regularly, but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
• Fertilization: Fertilize Retrophyllum trees once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Retrophyllum trees prefer acidic soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5. They can also tolerate slightly alkaline soil.
• Sunlight: Retrophyllum trees prefer partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, they may benefit from some afternoon shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Retrophyllum trees are hardy to USDA zones 8-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Retrophyllum trees are relatively pest and disease-resistant, but they can still be affected by a few common problems:

• Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Scales: These insects can also cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can cause root rot, which can be fatal to Retrophyllum trees. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.

Habitat

Retrophyllum trees are native to the southern hemisphere, where they can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and mountains. They are particularly common in South America, New Zealand, and Australia. Retrophyllum trees prefer moist but well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures and climates.

Question and Answer

Q: Are Retrophyllum trees easy to care for?

A: Yes, Retrophyllum trees are relatively easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of conditions.

Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Retrophyllum trees?

A: Retrophyllum trees are relatively pest and disease-resistant, but they can be affected by aphids, scales, and root rot.

Q: Where are Retrophyllum trees native to?

A: Retrophyllum trees are native to the southern hemisphere, particularly South America, New Zealand, and Australia.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Retrophyllum trees?

A: Retrophyllum trees are hardy to USDA zones 8-11.

Related Plants

• Podocarpus
• Nageia
• Dacrydium
• Phyllocladus

References

• “Retrophyllum.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 13 Aug. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retrophyllum.
• “Retrophyllum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c542.
• “Retrophyllum.” Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, www.kew.org/search/all?text=Retrophyllum.