Alangium Platanifolium

Description

Alangium Platanifolium is an ornamental plant that belongs to the family Cornaceae. It is commonly known as the Chinese Alangium due to its origin in China. The plant has an upright growth habit, reaching a height of 3-6 meters. It has a unique feature of shedding its bark, revealing a smooth and light-colored trunk. The leaves of Alangium Platanifolium are large, measuring up to 40 cm long and 30 cm wide. The plant produces small, fragrant, cream-colored flowers that bloom in the spring.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Alangium Platanifolium has a striking appearance, making it a popular ornamental plant. The leaves of the plant are large and broad, measuring up to 40 cm long and 30 cm wide. They have a distinctive shape, similar to the maple leaf, with three to five lobes. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and have a leathery texture. The bark of the plant is thin and papery, and it peels off the trunk, revealing a smooth, light-colored surface. The flowers are small, cream-colored, and fragrant, blooming in the spring.

Care Guide

Taking care of Alangium Platanifolium is relatively easy, making it an ideal plant for both novice and experienced gardeners. Here are some care tips for this plant:

Water: Alangium Platanifolium prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate short periods of drought. Water the plant once a week or when the top inch of the soil is dry.

Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.

Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in slightly acidic to neutral soil.

Sunlight: Alangium Platanifolium prefers partial shade to full sun. Too much sun can scorch the leaves, while too little can stunt the growth of the plant.

Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Alangium Platanifolium is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to the following:

Pests: The plant can be attacked by scale insects, spider mites, and mealybugs. Treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Diseases: The plant can be affected by root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Treat them with a fungicide.

Habitat

The Alangium Platanifolium is native to China, Japan, and Korea. It grows in a wide range of habitats, including forests, thickets, and open fields. The plant prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Alangium Platanifolium a fast-growing plant?

A: No, Alangium Platanifolium is a slow-growing plant.

Q: How tall can Alangium Platanifolium grow?

A: The plant can reach a height of 3-6 meters.

Q: Can Alangium Platanifolium be grown in containers?

A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it requires regular pruning to maintain its size.

Q: Does Alangium Platanifolium produce fruit?

A: Yes, the plant produces small, red, berry-like fruit that are not edible.

Related Plants

Here are some plants that are related to Alangium Platanifolium:

• Alangium Chinense
• Cornus Kousa
• Cornus Florida
• Cornus Mas

References

• “Alangium Platanifolium.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 June 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=291565>.
• “Alangium Platanifolium.” Plant Care Guide. Accessed 15 June 2021. <https://plantcareguide.com/alangium-platanifolium/>.
• “Alangium Platanifolium.” The Spruce. Accessed 15 June 2021. <https://www.thespruce.com/alangium-platanifolium-3269660>.