Contents
Description
Alchornea Trewioides is a species of plant in the Euphorbiaceae family, commonly known as the African maple or rainforest fireball. It is native to tropical Africa, including countries like Cameroon, Gabon, and Nigeria. This evergreen tree can grow up to 45 feet tall, and its leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate in shape. The leaves can grow up to 8 inches long and 5 inches wide, and they have a glossy green color. The tree produces small flowers that are greenish-yellow in color, and they are followed by small, red fruit that contain seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Alchornea |
Appearance
The African maple is a striking tree with a straight trunk and a rounded crown. Its leaves are glossy and dark green, giving the tree an attractive appearance. The leaves are simple and alternate, with a smooth margin and a pointed tip. The flowers of the African maple are small and greenish-yellow in color, and they bloom in clusters. The tree produces small, red fruit that contain seeds. The bark of the tree is smooth and grayish-brown in color.
Care Guide
To care for an Alchornea Trewioides, you should provide it with plenty of water and fertilization. The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It also needs plenty of sunlight to grow properly. The African maple is hardy in zones 10 and 11, and it can be grown as an indoor plant in cooler climates. When grown indoors, the tree should be placed in a sunny window or under grow lights.
Common Pests & Diseases
The African maple is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Common pests include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Diseases that can affect Alchornea Trewioides include leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring that the tree is planted in well-draining soil and that it is not over-watered.
Habitat
Alchornea Trewioides is native to tropical Africa, where it grows in rainforests and other moist environments. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, and it needs plenty of sunlight to grow properly. The tree is commonly found in countries like Cameroon, Gabon, and Nigeria.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Alchornea Trewioides be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the African maple can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with plenty of sunlight.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Alchornea Trewioides?
A: The tree is hardy in zones 10 and 11.
Q: What pests are common on Alchornea Trewioides?
A: Mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects are common pests that can affect the tree.
Q: What diseases can affect Alchornea Trewioides?
A: Leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot are common diseases that can affect the tree.
Related Plants
- Alchornea cordifolia
- Alchornea floribunda
- Alchornea hirtella
- Alchornea laxiflora
References
- “Alchornea Trewioides.” PlantZAfrica.com. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 28 May 2021.
- “Alchornea Trewioides.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 28 May 2021.
- “Alchornea Trewioides.” World Agroforestry. World Agroforestry, n.d. Web. 28 May 2021.
