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Description
Albizia Saman, also known as the rain tree or monkey pod tree, is a species of tree in the Fabaceae family. It is native to South America but has spread to other tropical regions of the world. The tree can grow up to 25 meters in height, and its canopy can spread up to 50 meters wide. Albizia Saman is known for its umbrella-like canopy that provides shade and shelter to many animals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Albizia |
Appearance
The Albizia Saman tree has a brownish-gray bark that is smooth when young and becomes rough and fissured with age. The leaves are bipinnate, meaning they are divided into smaller leaflets. The tree produces clusters of flowers that are pinkish-white in color and are about 2-3 cm long. The fruit is a pod that is about 30 cm long and contains seeds that are covered in a sweet pulp.
Care Guide
Water
Albizia Saman prefers a well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant season.
Fertilization
Fertilize Albizia Saman with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil
The tree prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight
Albizia Saman prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Albizia Saman is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Albizia Saman is susceptible to leaf spot, root rot, and webworms. Leaf spot can be treated with a fungicide, while root rot can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-draining. Webworms can be controlled with insecticides.
Habitat
Albizia Saman is native to the rainforests of South America but has been introduced to other tropical regions of the world. The tree prefers a warm, humid climate and can tolerate salty soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Albizia Saman be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Albizia Saman can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with ample space and nutrients.
Q: How fast does Albizia Saman grow?
A: Albizia Saman can grow up to 5 feet per year in the right conditions.
Q: Is Albizia Saman drought-tolerant?
A: No, Albizia Saman prefers a moist soil and is not drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Albizia Saman have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, Albizia Saman has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and respiratory infections.
Related Plants
- Albizia julibrissin
- Acacia koa
- Senna spectabilis
- Delonix regia
- Cassia fistula
References
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/albizia-saman
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/monkey-pod-tree/monkey-pod-tree-information.htm
- https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Albizia+saman
- https://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/duke_energy/Albizia_saman.html
