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Description
Cecropia Pachystachya, also known as ambay pump, is a fast-growing tree that belongs to the Cecropiaceae family. It is native to Central and South America and can grow up to 20 meters tall. The tree is known for its large leaves and distinctive shape. The trunk is usually straight and cylindrical with a diameter of up to 30 centimeters. The bark is gray and smooth, and the branches are long and thin.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Cecropiaceae |
| Genus | Cecropia |
Appearance
Cecropia Pachystachya has large palmate leaves that are 30 to 60 centimeters wide. The leaves have 7 to 11 lobes that are deeply incised. The lobes are pointed and have a serrated edge. The tree is dioecious, which means that male and female flowers are borne on separate trees. The male flowers are yellow-green and grow in long spikes, while the female flowers are green and grow in short spikes. The fruit is a small, fleshy drupe that is 1 to 2 centimeters in diameter.
Care Guide
Cecropia Pachystachya is a low-maintenance tree that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. Here are some care tips to keep your tree healthy:
Water
Cecropia Pachystachya prefers moist soil but can tolerate dry conditions. Water the tree regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Soil
Cecropia Pachystachya prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH of 5.5 to 7.5.
Sunlight
Cecropia Pachystachya prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Cecropia Pachystachya can grow in USDA hardiness zones 10 to 12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cecropia Pachystachya is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Insects such as scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites can infest the tree. Use a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control these pests.
Habitat
Cecropia Pachystachya is native to Central and South America and can be found in tropical rainforests. The tree grows in a wide range of soil types and can tolerate both wet and dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cecropia Pachystachya a good shade tree?
A: Yes, Cecropia Pachystachya can provide good shade due to its large leaves and spreading canopy.
Q: Can Cecropia Pachystachya be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Cecropia Pachystachya can be grown in a container, but it may not grow as large as it would in the ground.
Q: How fast does Cecropia Pachystachya grow?
A: Cecropia Pachystachya is a fast-growing tree that can grow up to 3 meters per year under ideal conditions.
Q: Does Cecropia Pachystachya have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, Cecropia Pachystachya has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including inflammation, fever, and diarrhea.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Cecropiaceae family:
- Cecropia obtusifolia
- Cecropia peltata
- Cecropia sciadophylla
References
- “Cecropia Pachystachya.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 11 Jan. 2022. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287163&isprofile=0&basic=Cecropia%20pachystachya.
- “Cecropia Pachystachya.” PlantFiles. Accessed 11 Jan. 2022. davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/216729/.
- “Cecropia Pachystachya.” Useful Tropical Plants. Accessed 11 Jan. 2022. uses.plantnet-project.org/en/Cecropia_pachystachya_(PROSEA).
