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Description
Schrebera Alata, also known as the Winged Star Apple or the Winged Schrebera, is a tropical tree found in Africa and Asia. It belongs to the Oleaceae family and is known for its medicinal properties and ornamental value. The tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a broad, spreading crown. Its leaves are large, glossy, and dark green, with prominent veins.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Schrebera |
Appearance
The Schrebera Alata tree has a unique appearance. Its trunk is thick and has a greyish-brown bark with deep vertical fissures. The tree produces small, fragrant, white or yellow flowers that bloom in clusters. The fruit of the tree is a green, fleshy drupe that turns yellow when ripe. The fruit is edible but not commonly eaten due to its bitter taste. The tree’s winged seeds are dispersed by wind and can travel long distances.
Care Guide
The Schrebera Alata tree requires moderate care to thrive. It prefers well-draining soil with a neutral pH and regular watering to keep the soil moist. The tree can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sunlight. It is hardy in USDA zones 10-12 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 30°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Schrebera Alata tree is susceptible to pests and diseases. Common pests include mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can cause damage to the leaves and weaken the tree. The tree is also susceptible to root rot and leaf spot disease. Proper care and maintenance, including regular pruning and fertilization, can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
The Schrebera Alata tree is native to Africa and Asia, where it grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It can be found in forests, woodlands, and along riverbanks. The tree is commonly cultivated for its ornamental value and medicinal properties.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Schrebera Alata?
A: The bark and leaves of the tree are used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, malaria, and rheumatism.
Q: What is the preferred growing environment for Schrebera Alata?
A: The tree prefers well-draining soil with a neutral pH and full sunlight.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Schrebera Alata?
A: Common pests include mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. The tree is also susceptible to root rot and leaf spot disease.
Q: Is Schrebera Alata edible?
A: The fruit of the tree is edible but not commonly eaten due to its bitter taste.
Related Plants
- Schrebera Swietenioides
- Schrebera Trifoliata
- Schrebera Brownii
References
- https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/AFTPDFS/Schrebera_alata.PDF
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/winged-star-apple-tree/winged-star-apple-tree.htm
- https://www.tropicalbritain.co.uk/schrebera-alata.html
