Contents
Description
Bucquetia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Malvaceae, native to South America. There are only two known species: Bucquetia glutinosa and Bucquetia grandiflora. These plants are known for their unique appearance, with showy yellow or white flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. They are also commonly called “sticky trees” due to their sticky sap.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Anthophyta|| Class| Magnoliopsida|| Order| Malvales|| Family| Malvaceae|| Genus| Bucquetia|
Appearance
Bucquetia trees can grow up to 20 meters tall and have a trunk diameter of up to 60 centimeters. The bark is brown and rough, and the leaves are large and dark green. The flowers are the most distinctive feature of the Bucquetia plant, with yellow or white petals that form a bell shape. The flowers can grow up to 10 centimeters in diameter and have a sweet fragrance. The fruit of the Bucquetia plant is a woody capsule that contains seeds.
Care Guide
Bucquetia plants prefer well-draining soil and regular watering. They can tolerate some drought, but should be watered deeply during periods of extended dryness. Fertilization is not necessary, but can help promote growth and flowering. Bucquetia plants prefer full sun, but can tolerate some shade. They are hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bucquetia plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil. Aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects can also be a problem, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Bucquetia plants are native to the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly in Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela. They prefer moist, well-draining soil and can be found growing along riverbanks and in lowland forests.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Bucquetia plants be grown indoors?
A: While Bucquetia plants prefer full sun, they can be grown indoors near a sunny window. However, they will not grow as large as outdoor plants.
Q: How often should Bucquetia plants be fertilized?
A: Fertilization is not necessary for Bucquetia plants, but can be done once a month during the growing season to promote growth and flowering.
Q: Do Bucquetia plants attract bees?
A: Yes, Bucquetia plants are known to attract bees and other pollinators with their sweet fragrance.
Q: Are Bucquetia plants toxic to pets?
A: There is no known toxicity in Bucquetia plants, but as with any plant, it is best to keep them out of reach of pets and children.
Related Plants
- Malvaceae
- Hibiscus
- Abutilon
- Sida
References
- “Bucquetia.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
- “Bucquetia.” Plant List.
- “Bucquetia.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
