Contents
Description
Atractocarpus Hirtus is a small, evergreen tree that grows up to 10-15 meters in height. It is native to Madagascar, but it is also found in other regions such as East Africa, the Comoros Islands, and the Seychelles. The tree’s leaves are glossy, dark green, and leathery, and they are elliptical in shape. The tree produces small, white flowers that grow in clusters, which then develop into yellow-green edible fruits that are about the size of a grape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Atractocarpus |
Appearance
The Atractocarpus Hirtus tree has a compact and bushy appearance, and it grows to be about 10-15 meters tall. The tree has glossy, dark green, and leathery leaves that are elliptical and measure about 7-12 cm long and 3-5 cm wide. The small, white flowers that grow in clusters have five petals and are about 1 cm wide. The tree’s fruit is yellow-green, about the size of a grape, and has a slightly sweet and sour taste. The fruit is also covered in small bumps, giving it a unique texture.
Care Guide
The Atractocarpus Hirtus tree requires regular care to thrive. Here are some tips to keep your tree healthy:
- Water: Water your tree regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your tree once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Place your tree in a spot that receives bright, indirect sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: Atractocarpus Hirtus can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Atractocarpus Hirtus tree is relatively disease-resistant, but it can still be affected by pests such as mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The tree may also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or grown in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
Atractocarpus Hirtus is native to Madagascar, but it is also found in other regions such as East Africa, the Comoros Islands, and the Seychelles. The tree grows in a range of habitats, from rainforests to dry deciduous forests. It can also be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Atractocarpus Hirtus a fruit-bearing tree?
A: Yes, Atractocarpus Hirtus produces yellow-green edible fruits that are about the size of a grape.
Q: What is the ideal growing condition for Atractocarpus Hirtus?
A: Atractocarpus Hirtus thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, and it requires bright, indirect sunlight and regular watering.
Q: What pests are commonly found on Atractocarpus Hirtus?
A: Atractocarpus Hirtus can be affected by mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Atractocarpus Hirtus?
A: Atractocarpus Hirtus can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Related Plants
- Atractocarpus Benthamianus
- Atractocarpus Brighamii
- Atractocarpus Bracteatus
- Atractocarpus Brevipes
References
- “Atractocarpus Hirtus.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
- “Atractocarpus Hirtus.” Plants of the World Online, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
- “Atractocarpus Hirtus.” Madagascar Catalogue, Missouri Botanical Garden.
