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Description
Alectryon Excelsus, also known as the New Zealand Oak, is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that is native to New Zealand. It belongs to the soapberry family and is known for its attractive foliage and showy flowers. The tree has a rounded crown and can grow up to 15 meters tall in the wild. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to its aesthetic appeal.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Alectryon |
Appearance
The leaves of Alectryon Excelsus are dark green and glossy, with a leathery texture. They are divided into 8-12 leaflets and can grow up to 20 cm in length. The tree produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that bloom from September to December. The fruit is a hard, woody capsule that contains one or two seeds. The bark of the tree is rough and fissured, with a dark brown color.
Care Guide
Water: Alectryon Excelsus prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in winter.
Fertilization: Feed the tree with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can damage the roots.
Soil: Plant Alectryon Excelsus in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0).
Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may affect its growth and flowering.
Hardiness Zones: Alectryon Excelsus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Alectryon Excelsus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot, leaf spot, and scale insects. To prevent these problems, avoid overwatering, maintain good hygiene, and treat any infestations promptly with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Alectryon Excelsus is native to New Zealand, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, shrublands, and rocky outcrops. The tree is adapted to a wide range of soil types and can tolerate both drought and frost.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Alectryon Excelsus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Alectryon Excelsus can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full potential. Make sure the pot is large enough to accommodate the roots and use a well-draining soil mix.
Q: Does Alectryon Excelsus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the tree attracts birds and insects, especially bees and butterflies, which are attracted to its fragrant flowers.
Q: How often should I prune my Alectryon Excelsus?
A: Prune the tree in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also shape the tree by removing any unwanted growth. Avoid pruning in summer, as it can stress the tree.
Q: Is Alectryon Excelsus toxic to pets?
A: The seeds of Alectryon Excelsus are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep the tree away from pets and children and dispose of any fallen fruit promptly.
Related Plants
- Alectryon tomentosus
- Alectryon subcinereus
- Alectryon macrococcus
- Alectryon excelsus var. grandis
References
- de Lange, P. J., & Heenan, P. B. (2006). Alectryon excelsus. New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Retrieved from https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/alectryon-excelsus/
- Hartley, T. G. (2001). The New Zealand Garden: A Practical Guide to Growing Plants. Reed Publishing.
- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Alectryon excelsus. RHS Gardening. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/272/alectryon-excelsus/details
