Contents
Description
Adenanthera is a genus of flowering plants in the pea family, Fabaceae. The genus consists of only one species, Adenanthera pavonina, which is commonly known as the red sandalwood or coral wood tree. The plant is native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands and is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree. It is also valued for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Adenanthera |
Appearance
The Adenanthera plant grows up to 20 meters tall and has a diameter of up to 60 centimeters. Its leaves are pinnate and about 20 centimeters long. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that are about 1 centimeter in diameter. Its fruit is a pod that contains 6 to 12 seeds, which are bright red and about 1 centimeter in diameter. The seeds are used as beads, and their bright red color makes them popular in jewelry making and as decorative items.
Care Guide
The Adenanthera plant requires moderate watering and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every 2 to 3 months. It prefers well-draining soil and should be placed in full sun or partial shade. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12 and should be protected from frost.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Adenanthera plant is relatively pest-resistant, but it may be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. It may also be prone to fungal diseases, such as leaf spot and root rot, if overwatered. To prevent pests and diseases, ensure that the plant is properly cared for and not stressed.
Habitat
The Adenanthera plant is native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. It is a common ornamental tree in parks and gardens and is also grown for its wood, which is used in furniture making and as fuelwood. The plant is also valued for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as fever, inflammation, and diarrhea.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Adenanthera plant toxic?
A: No, the Adenanthera plant is not toxic, and its seeds are edible when cooked.
Q: Can the Adenanthera plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Adenanthera plant can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location.
Q: How long does it take for the Adenanthera plant to mature?
A: The Adenanthera plant can take up to 5 years to reach maturity and produce fruit.
Q: What is the cultural significance of the Adenanthera plant?
A: The Adenanthera plant has cultural significance in many Southeast Asian countries and is used in various traditional rituals and ceremonies.
Related Plants
- Acacia
- Bauhinia
- Cassia
- Delonix
References
- “Adenanthera.” The Plant List. Accessed on 24 September 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Leguminosae/Adenanthera/
- “Adenanthera pavonina.” Tropical Plants Database. Accessed on 24 September 2021. http://www.rain-tree.com/adenanth.htm
- “Adenanthera pavonina.” Floridata. Accessed on 24 September 2021. https://floridata.com/Plants/Fabaceae/Adenanthera+pavonina/346
