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Description
Strychnos Innocua, also known as the “false mopane,” is a species of flowering plant in the family Loganiaceae. It is native to southern Africa, particularly in Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa. This small to medium-sized tree can grow up to 8 meters tall and has a trunk that can reach up to 50 centimeters in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Loganiaceae |
| Genus | Strychnos |
Appearance
Strychnos Innocua has a distinct appearance with its rough, grey bark and dense, spreading crown. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and leathery, and can grow up to 8 centimeters long and 4 centimeters wide. The flowers are small, white, and star-shaped, and bloom in clusters from October to November. The fruit is a woody capsule that contains up to four seeds, which are enclosed in a fleshy, orange-red aril.
Care Guide
Strychnos Innocua is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
Water: Strychnos Innocua prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate both wet and dry conditions. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering in winter.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in spring.
Soil: Strychnos Innocua prefers well-drained, sandy soil that is slightly acidic. Mix some organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, into the soil before planting to improve drainage and fertility.
Sunlight: Strychnos Innocua prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well.
Hardiness Zones: Strychnos Innocua is hardy to USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Strychnos Innocua is generally pest and disease resistant, but it can be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet or poorly drained.
Habitat
Strychnos Innocua is commonly found in dry, deciduous woodlands and savannas, particularly in areas with sandy soils. It is often found growing alongside other trees such as mopane, leadwood, and camel thorn.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Strychnos Innocua poisonous?
A: While some species of Strychnos are known to be poisonous, Strychnos Innocua is not toxic to humans or animals.
Q: Can Strychnos Innocua be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Strychnos Innocua can be grown in a container as long as it has enough space to grow and the soil is well-drained.
Q: How often should Strychnos Innocua be pruned?
A: Strychnos Innocua does not require regular pruning. However, you can prune the tree to maintain its shape or remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: Can Strychnos Innocua tolerate frost?
A: Strychnos Innocua is not frost hardy and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Related Plants
- Strychnos Nux-vomica
- Strychnos Pungens
- Strychnos Spinosa
- Strychnos Usambarensis
References
- “Strychnos Innocua – False Mopane.” PlantZAfrica, National Botanical Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/strychnoinnoc.htm.
- “Strychnos Innocua.” Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.sanbi.org/plant-of-the-week/strychnos-innocua/.
- “Strychnos Innocua.” The University of Arizona Campus Arboretum, www.cals.arizona.edu/trees/treeguide/species/strychnos_innocua.
