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Description
Tetrameles nudiflora, commonly known as “rain tree” or “naked-flowered tree”, is a large deciduous tree that belongs to the Combretaceae family. The tree can grow up to 50 meters in height and has a wide canopy that can spread up to 30 meters. It is native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Combretaceae |
| Genus | Tetrameles |
Appearance
Tetrameles nudiflora has a distinctive appearance, with a straight trunk that can grow up to 2 meters in diameter. The bark is grayish-brown and rough, with deep fissures. The leaves are simple and alternate, with a length of up to 20 cm and a width of up to 15 cm. The leaves are elliptic to oblong in shape, with a pointed tip and a smooth margin. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, with no petals, and are borne in clusters on the branches. The fruit is a woody, four-winged capsule that contains four seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Tetrameles nudiflora requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring to promote growth.Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Tetrameles nudiflora prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The tree can grow in hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tetrameles nudiflora is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to leaf spot and root rot if the soil is poorly drained.
Habitat
Tetrameles nudiflora is commonly found in lowland rainforests and mangrove forests. It prefers wet and humid environments.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Tetrameles nudiflora a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, Tetrameles nudiflora is considered a fast-growing tree.Q: Can Tetrameles nudiflora be grown in containers?
A: No, Tetrameles nudiflora is not suitable for container gardening due to its large size.Q: Does Tetrameles nudiflora have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, the bark of Tetrameles nudiflora is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.Q: Is Tetrameles nudiflora an endangered species?
A: No, Tetrameles nudiflora is not currently listed as an endangered species.
Related Plants
- Tetrameles celebica
- Tetrameles elliptica
- Tetrameles nudiflora
- Tetrameles subcordata
References
- “Tetrameles nudiflora.” Flora of China, eFloras.org, www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200013291.
- “Tetrameles nudiflora.” Useful Tropical Plants, tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Tetrameles+nudiflora.
- “Tetrameles nudiflora.” World Agroforestry Centre, agroforestree.wur.nl/Database/DTB/Datasheet.php?RecordID=1892.
