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Description
Amherstia Nobilis, also known as the Pride of Burma, is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. It is named after Lady Amherst, the wife of a British Governor-General of India, who discovered the tree in Burma in the early 1800s. The tree is highly prized for its stunning flowers, which are bright red and resemble orchids. The Amherstia Nobilis is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 40 feet tall and 30 feet wide. It blooms from April to June and produces large, hanging clusters of flowers that can reach up to 3 feet in length.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Amherstia |
Appearance
The Amherstia Nobilis has a smooth, gray bark and large, dark green leaves that are arranged in a pinnate fashion. The leaves can grow up to 18 inches long and are made up of 5-7 leaflets. The tree produces beautiful, bright red flowers that are shaped like orchids and hang in large clusters. The flowers can grow up to 3 feet in length and are followed by long, narrow seed pods that can be up to 2 feet long.
Care Guide
Water: The Amherstia Nobilis needs to be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer.Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The Amherstia Nobilis needs full sun to partial shade. It is important to protect the tree from strong winds.Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in zones 11-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Amherstia Nobilis is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including mites, scale insects, and root rot. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
The Amherstia Nobilis is native to Southeast Asia, specifically Burma, Thailand, and Malaysia. It prefers humid, tropical climates and can be found growing in lowland rainforests.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Amherstia Nobilis be grown in a container?A: Yes, the tree can be grown in a container, but it will need to be repotted regularly as it grows.Q: Does the Amherstia Nobilis attract bees?A: Yes, the tree’s flowers attract bees and other pollinators.Q: How often should I prune my Amherstia Nobilis?A: Pruning should be done in the winter while the tree is dormant. Remove any dead or damaged branches and trim back any branches that are growing too long.Q: How long does it take for the Amherstia Nobilis to bloom?A: The tree typically takes 7-10 years to start blooming.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Leguminosae family include:
- Acacia
- Cassia
- Laburnum
- Robinia
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/amherstia/amherstia-nobilis-info.htm
- https://www.britannica.com/plant/Amherstia-nobilis
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/1856/i-amherstia-nobilis-i/details
