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Description
Toronia, also known as Toronia toru, is a tropical evergreen tree that belongs to the family of Euphorbiaceae. This tree is native to the Pacific islands, particularly Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga. Toronia is a popular ornamental tree because of its attractive foliage and unique flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Toronia |
Appearance
Toronia can grow up to 40 feet tall and 30 feet wide. Its leaves are glossy, dark green, and have a lanceolate shape with a pointed tip. The leaves are around 4-8 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. Toronia flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and arranged in clusters. The tree produces fruit that is a round, green capsule around 1-2 inches in diameter. The capsule splits open to reveal three compartments that contain seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Toronia prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water the tree once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.Fertilization: Fertilize Toronia with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.Soil: Toronia grows well in fertile, well-draining soil. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.Sunlight: Toronia prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not produce as many flowers.Hardiness Zones: Toronia grows well in USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Toronia is susceptible to scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled by spraying the tree with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Toronia can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These diseases can be controlled by removing infected leaves and spraying the tree with a fungicide.
Habitat
Toronia is native to the Pacific islands, particularly Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga. It grows in tropical rainforests and can be found at elevations up to 1,500 feet.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Toronia a fast-growing tree?
A: Toronia is a moderately fast-growing tree that can grow up to 3 feet per year in optimal conditions.Q: Can Toronia be grown indoors?
A: Toronia can be grown indoors as a houseplant. It requires bright, indirect light and should be watered once a week.Q: When does Toronia flower?
A: Toronia flowers from late spring to early summer.Q: Is Toronia poisonous?
A: Toronia is not poisonous but its sap can cause skin irritation in some people.
Related Plants
– Euphorbia milii (Crown of Thorns)- Codiaeum variegatum (Croton)- Schefflera actinophylla (Umbrella Tree)
References
– “Toronia: An Ornamental Pacific Tree.” The Garden Island. Retrieved from https://www.thegardenisland.com/2019/07/14/lifestyles/toronia-an-ornamental-pacific-tree/- “Toronia toru.” Flora of Fiji. Retrieved from http://www.fijiflora.com/index.php/species-account/toronia-toru
