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Description
Castanopsis Eyrei, also known as the Chinese chinkapin, is a plant species that belongs to the Fagaceae family. It is an evergreen tree that is native to China, specifically in the provinces of Fujian, Guangdong, and Guangxi. The tree can grow up to 20 to 30 meters tall and has a straight trunk with a diameter of up to 1 meter. Its bark is grayish-brown, and its leaves are dark green, glossy, and leathery. The tree produces small flowers that are white or yellowish-green in color and produces small fruits that are brown and prickly.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Castanopsis |
| Species | Eyrei |
Appearance
The Castanopsis Eyrei tree has a distinct look that sets it apart from other species. The tree has a straight trunk with a diameter of up to 1 meter and can grow up to 20 to 30 meters tall. Its bark is grayish-brown and has deep fissures that form a rough surface. The tree produces dark green, glossy, and leathery leaves that are 5 to 15 centimeters long and 2 to 6.5 centimeters wide. The leaves are elliptical or oblong in shape and have a pointed tip. The tree produces small flowers that are white or yellowish-green in color and grow in clusters. The flowers bloom in the spring, and the tree produces small fruits that are brown and prickly.
Care Guide
Castanopsis Eyrei is a low maintenance tree that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The tree requires regular watering during the growing season, especially during dry periods. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: The tree does not require regular fertilization, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Castanopsis Eyrei is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves and can be prevented by keeping the plant dry and well-ventilated.
- Canker: This bacterial disease causes sunken areas on the bark and can be prevented by keeping the plant healthy and avoiding injury to the bark.
- Mites: These small insects can cause discoloration and deformation of the leaves and can be treated with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Castanopsis Eyrei is native to China and can be found in the provinces of Fujian, Guangdong, and Guangxi. The tree grows in subtropical and tropical forests at elevations of up to 1,800 meters. It prefers well-drained soil and can grow in full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Castanopsis Eyrei an evergreen or deciduous tree?
A: Castanopsis Eyrei is an evergreen tree.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Castanopsis Eyrei?
A: Castanopsis Eyrei is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Q: How tall can Castanopsis Eyrei grow?
A: Castanopsis Eyrei can grow up to 20 to 30 meters tall.
Q: What is the preferred soil type for Castanopsis Eyrei?
A: Castanopsis Eyrei prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral.
Related Plants
- Castanopsis cuspidata
- Castanopsis fargesii
- Castanopsis hystrix
- Castanopsis sclerophylla
- Castanopsis sieboldii
References
- “Castanopsis eyrei.” Flora of China, www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200006310.
- “Castanopsis eyrei.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2706394.
- “Castanopsis eyrei.” Pacific Island Ecosystems at Risk (PIER), www.hear.org/pier/species/castanopsis_eyrei.htm.
