Contents
Description
Canarium is a genus of flowering plants in the family Burseraceae. The genus contains around 75 species of tropical and subtropical trees, many of which are economically important for their edible nuts or resins. The trees can range in size from small shrubs to large trees up to 40 meters tall.
Taxonomic Information
|Domain | Eukaryota ||Kingdom | Plantae ||Phylum | Spermatophyta ||Class | Magnoliopsida ||Order | Sapindales ||Family | Burseraceae ||Genus | Canarium |
Appearance
Canarium trees have a wide range of appearances depending on the species. Most have simple, alternate leaves that are usually pinnate or palmate in shape. The flowers are small and often unisexual, with male and female flowers appearing on separate trees. The fruits are usually drupes containing a hard, woody seed surrounded by a fleshy or leathery outer layer.
Care Guide
Canarium trees are generally easy to care for, but specific requirements may vary depending on the species. Here are some general guidelines:- Water: Canarium trees prefer well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.- Fertilization: Feed Canarium trees with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).- Soil: Canarium trees prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal.- Sunlight: Most Canarium trees prefer full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Canarium trees are tropical or subtropical and generally do not tolerate temperatures below freezing.
Common Pests & Diseases
Canarium trees are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but some issues to watch out for include:- Anthracnose: a fungal disease that causes leaf spots and cankers on branches and fruit.- Mealybugs: small, white insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems.- Scale insects: tiny, flat insects that feed on the sap of the plant and leave a sticky residue.- Root rot: a fungal disease that can occur in poorly-drained soil.
Habitat
Canarium trees are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and the Pacific Islands. They grow in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, savannas, and coastal areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Canarium nuts edible?
A: Yes, many species of Canarium produce edible nuts that are commonly eaten raw or cooked. The nuts are rich in protein and healthy fats.
Q: What is Canarium resin used for?
A: Canarium resin, also known as elemi, is used in a variety of products including perfumes, cosmetics, and varnishes. It has a sweet, spicy scent and is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Q: Can Canarium trees be grown indoors?
A: Canarium trees are generally too large to be grown indoors, but some smaller species may be suitable for growing in containers.
Q: Are Canarium trees endangered?
A: Some species of Canarium are considered endangered due to habitat loss and overharvesting of their nuts and resins. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these species.
Related Plants
– Boswellia- Commiphora- Myrrh- Frankincense
References
– “Canarium.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 15, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286143.- “Canarium.” The Plant List. Accessed September 15, 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Burseraceae/Canarium/.- “Canarium.” World Agroforestry Centre. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb/AFTPDFS/Canarium_eng.pdf.
