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Description
Anacardium Excelsum, also known as the “Tree of Life,” is a species of flowering tree that is native to South America. It belongs to the Anacardiaceae family and is related to other cashew trees. This magnificent tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a wide canopy that provides shade and shelter for a variety of wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Anacardium |
| Species | Anacardium Excelsum |
Appearance
The Anacardium Excelsum tree has a straight trunk and rough bark that is grayish-brown in color. Its leaves are large, glossy, and elliptical in shape, with a leathery texture. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in clusters during the summer months. The fruit of the Anacardium Excelsum is an oval-shaped drupe that is approximately 3 cm long and 2 cm wide. The fruit has a hard shell that contains the edible cashew nut.
Care Guide
Anacardium Excelsum trees require regular watering, especially during the dry season. They prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer every three months to promote healthy growth. Anacardium Excelsum trees thrive in full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade. They are hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Anacardium Excelsum trees are susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and anthracnose. The tree can also be attacked by pests such as mites and scale insects. Regular monitoring of the tree’s health and application of appropriate pesticides can help prevent pest and disease problems.
Habitat
Anacardium Excelsum trees are native to the rainforests of South America, including Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela. They grow in tropical and subtropical climates and prefer high humidity levels. The tree is commonly found in lowland areas near rivers and streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Anacardium Excelsum trees be grown indoors?
A: While Anacardium Excelsum trees can survive indoors, they thrive in outdoor environments with full sun exposure and high humidity levels.
Q: How long does it take for Anacardium Excelsum trees to bear fruit?
A: Anacardium Excelsum trees typically begin to produce fruit after 5-7 years of growth.
Q: Are Anacardium Excelsum trees drought-tolerant?
A: Anacardium Excelsum trees require regular watering and are not drought-tolerant.
Q: Can Anacardium Excelsum trees be grown in containers?
A: While Anacardium Excelsum trees can be grown in containers, they require large pots and frequent watering.
Related Plants
- Anacardium Occidentale
- Anacardium Microcarpum
- Anacardium Humile
References
- Flora of Brazil. (2021). Anacardium Excelsum. Flora do Brasil 2020. http://reflora.jbrj.gov.br/reflora/listaBrasil/ConsultaPublicaUC/BemVindoConsultaPublicaConsultar.do?invalidatePageControlCounter=1&idsFilhosAlgas=54784&idsFilhosFungos=54784&idsFilhosPlantas=54784&idsFilhosProtozoarios=54784
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. (n.d.). Anacardium Excelsum. Panama Canal Watershed. https://biogeodb.stri.si.edu/bioinformatics/dfm/metas/view/13365
- Tropicos.org. (2021). Anacardium Excelsum. Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.tropicos.org/name/12800059
