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Description
Wollemia Nobilis is a rare and unique plant species that is native to Australia. This tree is a member of the Araucariaceae family and is considered a “living fossil” because it was once thought to be extinct. It was discovered in 1994 in the Wollemi National Park in New South Wales and has since become a highly sought-after plant for horticulture purposes. Its scientific name is derived from the park in which it was discovered and the Latin word “nobilis,” which means noble or remarkable.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Araucariaceae |
| Genus | Wollemia |
Appearance
Wollemia Nobilis is a tall and slender tree that can grow up to 40 meters in height. It has a distinctive look with its slender trunk, small branches, and evergreen foliage. The leaves are needle-like and can grow up to 6 cm in length. They are a dark green color and are arranged spirally around the branch. The bark of the tree is a unique combination of different colors, including brown, grey, and black. The tree also produces cones that are about the size of a hen’s egg and can take up to two years to mature.
Care Guide
Wollemia Nobilis is a relatively easy plant to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for taking care of this unique tree:
- Water: This plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought. Water it regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter months.
- Fertilization: This plant does not require frequent fertilization. Use a slow-release fertilizer that is low in nitrogen once a year in the spring.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can also tolerate slightly acidic soil.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun. Avoid planting it in areas with strong winds.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Wollemia Nobilis is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, it can be vulnerable to root rot if the soil is not well-draining. It can also be susceptible to spider mites and scale insects, which can be controlled with regular applications of insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Wollemia Nobilis is native to Australia and is found in the Wollemi National Park in New South Wales. It grows in deep, narrow gorges and on steep, rocky slopes. The climate in this area is humid and subtropical, with hot summers and cool winters. The tree is considered endangered in the wild due to its limited distribution and small population size.
Question and Answer
Q: How fast does Wollemia Nobilis grow?
A: Wollemia Nobilis is a slow-growing tree and typically grows about 30 cm per year.
Q: Can Wollemia Nobilis be grown indoors?
A: Wollemia Nobilis can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location, but it may not reach its full potential in terms of size and growth.
Q: Is Wollemia Nobilis a good choice for a small garden?
A: Wollemia Nobilis can be grown in a small garden, but it may not be the best choice due to its large size and slow growth rate.
Q: Does Wollemia Nobilis have any cultural significance?
A: Wollemia Nobilis is considered a national treasure in Australia and has been the subject of many conservation efforts to protect it from extinction.
Related Plants
- Agathis Australis
- Agathis Robusta
- Araucaria Heterophylla
- Araucaria Cunninghamii
References
- “Wollemia Nobilis.” Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria. Accessed May 20, 2021. https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/plants/wollemia-nobilis/
- “Wollemia Nobilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 20, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b589
- “Wollemia Nobilis.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. Accessed May 20, 2021. https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/gnp11/wollemia-nobilis.html
