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Description
Castela Erecta, also known as “goat bush,” “cathedral tree,” or “candlewood,” is a small tree native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It belongs to the Simaroubaceae family and can grow up to 16 feet tall. This shrub-like tree has a unique appearance, with large, spiky green leaves and small white flowers that bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Simaroubaceae |
| Genus | Castela |
Appearance
Castela Erecta has a unique appearance with large, spiky green leaves and small white flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers have a sweet scent and attract bees and other pollinators. The bark of the tree is smooth and gray, and the wood is hard and durable. This slow-growing plant can reach up to 16 feet tall and has a spread of up to 9 feet.
Care Guide
Castela Erecta is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It is drought-tolerant and does well in well-drained soil. Here are some care tips:
Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and less frequently during the winter.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
Soil: Castela Erecta prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6 and 8.5.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Castela Erecta can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Castela Erecta is a hardy plant that is not prone to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, make sure the plant is planted in well-drained soil and water it only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Habitat
Castela Erecta is found in the southwestern United States and Mexico, where it grows in rocky, dry soils in desert regions. It can also be found in coastal areas and can grow in a variety of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Castela Erecta a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Castela Erecta is a hardy plant that requires minimal care and is a great choice for beginners.
Q: How often should I water Castela Erecta?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and less frequently during the winter.
Q: Can Castela Erecta grow in containers?
A: Yes, Castela Erecta can grow in containers, but it may not reach its full potential in size.
Q: Is Castela Erecta toxic to pets?
A: There is limited information on whether Castela Erecta is toxic to pets, so it’s best to keep pets away from the plant.
Related Plants
- Simarouba Glauca
- Quassia Amara
- Ailanthus Altissima
References
- “Castela Erecta.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 11 May 2021.
- “Castela Erecta.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 May 2021.
- “Castela Erecta.” DesertUSA. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 May 2021.
