Canellales

Description

Canellales is a small order of flowering plants that are native to tropical regions. The order consists of only two families, Canellaceae and Winteraceae, and around 130 species. These plants are typically small to medium-sized trees or shrubs, and they are known for their aromatic bark and leaves. Canellales are also valued for their timber, which is used in furniture making and other applications.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Angiosperms
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Canellales
Family	Canellaceae, Winteraceae
Genus	Canella, Drimys, Pseudowintera, Tasmannia, Zygogynum

Appearance

Canellales plants vary in appearance depending on the species. Canella trees have smooth, gray bark and glossy, dark green leaves. Drimys species have aromatic leaves and bark, and their flowers are typically white or yellow. Pseudowintera plants have reddish-brown bark and oval-shaped leaves that range in color from green to pink. Tasmannia plants have thick, glossy leaves and small, white flowers. Zygogynum plants have small, fragrant flowers and thick, leathery leaves.

Care Guide

Canellales plants generally require moderate care to thrive. They prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. These plants should be watered regularly, but not overwatered. Fertilizer can be applied once or twice a year, depending on the species. Canellales plants prefer a sunny location, but they can tolerate some shade. They are hardy in USDA zones 8-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Canellales plants are relatively pest and disease-resistant, but they may be susceptible to fungal diseases in humid conditions. Some common pests that can affect these plants include aphids, spider mites, and scale insects.

Habitat

Canellales plants are native to tropical regions around the world, including South America, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. They are typically found in rainforests and other moist environments.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Canellales plants be grown indoors?

A: Yes, some Canellales species can be grown indoors as long as they receive adequate sunlight and are kept in well-draining soil.

Q: Are Canellales plants toxic to pets?

A: There is no evidence that Canellales plants are toxic to pets, but it is always a good idea to keep pets away from plants that they may be tempted to chew on.

Q: How often should Canellales plants be fertilized?

A: Canellales plants should be fertilized once or twice a year, depending on the species and the quality of the soil.

Q: Are Canellales plants difficult to care for?

A: Canellales plants are relatively easy to care for as long as they receive adequate water, sunlight, and fertilizer. They are hardy in USDA zones 8-11.

Related Plants

• Magnoliales
• Laurales
• Piperales

References

• “Canellales.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.
• “Canellaceae.” Flora of North America.
• “Winteraceae.” Flora of North America.