Contents
Description
Aspidosperma is a genus of plants that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of South America. The plant has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, and it contains alkaloids that are used to treat various ailments. The bark, leaves, and roots of the plant are used to treat respiratory diseases, malaria, fever, and hypertension.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Aspidosperma |
Appearance
Aspidosperma is a tree that can grow up to 30 meters in height. It has a straight trunk with a diameter of up to 80 cm. The leaves are simple, opposite, and have a shiny surface. The flowers are small and white or yellow in color. The fruit is a capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Aspidosperma requires moderate watering and well-drained soil. It prefers full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. Fertilize the plant every two to three months during the growing season.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aspidosperma is susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot.
Habitat
Aspidosperma is found in the tropical and subtropical regions of South America, including Brazil, Bolivia, and Peru. It grows in rainforests, savannas, and other types of forests.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Aspidosperma?
A: Aspidosperma contains alkaloids that are used to treat respiratory diseases, malaria, fever, and hypertension.
Q: How tall can Aspidosperma grow?
A: Aspidosperma can grow up to 30 meters in height.
Q: What kind of soil does Aspidosperma prefer?
A: Aspidosperma prefers well-drained soil.
Q: What pests and diseases affect Aspidosperma?
A: Aspidosperma can be affected by scale insects, spider mites, powdery mildew, and root rot.
Related Plants
- Alstonia
- Catharanthus
- Cerbera
- Nerium
References
- “Aspidosperma.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e786.
- “Aspidosperma.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Apocynaceae/Aspidosperma/.
- “Aspidosperma.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 1 June 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspidosperma.
