Contents
Description
Bursera laxiflora, commonly known as the Fragrant Torchwood Tree, is a tropical evergreen tree that belongs to the Burseraceae family. It is native to Central America and Mexico, and can grow up to 50 feet tall with a spread of 30 feet. The tree has a slender trunk with smooth, thin bark that is a pale grey or white color. Its branches are thin and flexible, and it produces small, white flowers that bloom in the summer and fall. The tree also produces a sweet, citrus-like fragrance that fills the air around it.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Burseraceae |
| Genus | Bursera |
Appearance
The Fragrant Torchwood Tree has dark green leaves that are rounded and arranged in clusters at the end of its branches. Its flowers are small and white, with five petals that form a star shape. The tree produces small, round fruit that are green and turn red when ripe. The bark of the tree is thin and smooth, and is a pale grey or white color. The tree is aesthetically pleasing and adds a tropical touch to any landscape or garden area.
Care Guide
The Fragrant Torchwood Tree is a low-maintenance tree that is easy to care for. It prefers to be planted in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The tree requires moderate watering, and should be fertilized once a year with a slow-release fertilizer. It prefers full sun, but can tolerate partial shade. The tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-11, and should be protected from frost and freezing temperatures.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Fragrant Torchwood Tree is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The tree can also be prone to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soil. This can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-drained and allowing it to dry out slightly before watering again.
Habitat
The Fragrant Torchwood Tree is native to Central America and Mexico, and can be found in tropical and subtropical regions. It grows best in warm, humid climates with well-draining soil. The tree can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and grasslands. It is a popular tree for landscaping and is often planted in residential and commercial areas.
Question and Answer
1. What is the Fragrant Torchwood Tree?
Answer: The Fragrant Torchwood Tree is a tropical evergreen tree that belongs to the Burseraceae family. It is native to Central America and Mexico.
2. How tall can the Fragrant Torchwood Tree grow?
Answer: The tree can grow up to 50 feet tall with a spread of 30 feet.
3. What is the Fragrant Torchwood Tree’s preferred habitat?
Answer: The tree prefers warm, humid climates with well-draining soil.
4. What pests and diseases can the Fragrant Torchwood Tree be susceptible to?
Answer: The tree can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, and root rot.
Related Plants
- Bursera simaruba
- Bursera microphylla
- Bursera fagaroides
- Bursera graveolens
References
- “Bursera Laxiflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=292291. Accessed 23 May 2021.
- “Bursera Laxiflora.” San Marcos Growers, www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=1359. Accessed 23 May 2021.
- “Bursera Laxiflora.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/fp126. Accessed 23 May 2021.
