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Description
Barringtonia Asiatica, also known as the Sea Poison Tree, is a species of flowering tree in the family Lecythidaceae. It is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Indian Ocean, Southeast Asia, and Northern Australia. The tree can grow up to 25 meters tall and has a broad, spreading crown. It produces large, showy flowers that are white or pink in color and bloom at night. The fruit is a hard, woody capsule that splits open to reveal large, black seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Lecythidaceae |
| Genus | Barringtonia |
Appearance
The Barringtonia Asiatica has a dense, evergreen canopy that provides ample shade. Its leaves are large, glossy, and leathery, measuring between 15 and 30 centimeters long and 8 to 15 centimeters wide. The flowers are fragrant, bell-shaped, and measure up to 15 centimeters in diameter. They are usually white or pink and bloom at night. The fruit is a large, woody capsule that measures between 10 and 20 centimeters in diameter and contains up to 50 seeds.
Care Guide
The Barringtonia Asiatica prefers a warm, humid climate and can be grown in full sun or partial shade. It requires regular watering during the growing season and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks. The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is hardy to USDA zones 10 and 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Barringtonia Asiatica is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including scale insects, spider mites, and leaf spot. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
The Barringtonia Asiatica is found in a variety of habitats, including coastal forests, mangroves, and swamps. It is often found growing near water and is able to tolerate salt spray and inundation. The tree is commonly used as an ornamental plant in tropical gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Barringtonia Asiatica toxic?
A: Yes, the tree is toxic to humans and animals if ingested.
Q: Can the Barringtonia Asiatica be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with adequate space and drainage.
Q: How often should I water my Barringtonia Asiatica?
A: The tree should be watered regularly during the growing season, but care should be taken not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Q: How long does it take for the Barringtonia Asiatica to bloom?
A: The tree usually blooms within three to four years of planting.
Related Plants
- Barringtonia Acutangula
- Barringtonia Racemosa
- Barringtonia Edulis
References
- “Barringtonia asiatica (L.) Kurz”. Plants of the World Online. Kew Science.
- “Barringtonia asiatica”. Australian Tropical Rainforest Plants.
- “Barringtonia asiatica”. Floridata.
