Archidendron Lucidum

Description

Archidendron Lucidum, also known as the Shiny Leaved Legume, is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is a close relative of the Acacia and Albizia. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a broad crown with a dense foliage of shiny green leaves. The flowers are small and yellow, and the fruit is a long pod containing multiple seeds.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Archidendron Lucidum tree has a straight trunk covered in a grayish-brown bark that can peel off in thin strips. The branches are thin and flexible, and the leaves are glossy and oval-shaped, with a length of up to 30 centimeters. The tree produces small yellow flowers that grow in clusters and bloom in the spring, and the fruit is a long, flat pod that can reach up to 30 centimeters in length.

Care Guide

The Archidendron Lucidum tree requires regular watering, especially during the dry season, as it does not tolerate drought. It also needs well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every three months. The tree prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Archidendron Lucidum tree is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as anthracnose, which causes leaf spots and defoliation, and root rot, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Habitat

The Archidendron Lucidum tree is native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia, where it grows in moist, well-draining soil. It is commonly found in lowland areas and can grow in both primary and secondary forests. It is also cultivated as an ornamental tree in many tropical regions around the world.

Question and Answer

Q: Is the Archidendron Lucidum tree easy to grow?

A: Yes, this tree is relatively easy to grow as long as it is provided with the right conditions, such as regular watering and well-draining soil.

Q: Can the Archidendron Lucidum tree be grown in a container?

A: Yes, this tree can be grown in a container, but it will need to be repotted regularly as it grows. It is also recommended to provide it with a support stake to prevent it from toppling over.

Q: Does the Archidendron Lucidum tree have any medicinal properties?

A: Yes, the bark of this tree has been traditionally used in Southeast Asian medicine to treat fever, diarrhea, and inflammation.

Q: Is the Archidendron Lucidum tree endangered?

A: No, this tree is not currently considered endangered, but its natural habitat is under threat from deforestation and habitat loss.

Related Plants

• Archidendron clypearia
• Archidendron jiringa
• Archidendron pauciflorum
• Archidendron schlechteri

References

• “Archidendron lucidum.” Plantz Africa, www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/archidendronlucid.htm.
• “Archidendron lucidum.” Useful Tropical Plants, tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Archidendron+lucidum.
• “Archidendron lucidum.” World Agroforestry, www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/speciesprofile.php?Spid=1814.