Contents
Description
Cercidiphyllaceae is a family of flowering plants that are native to East Asia and North America. The family consists of only one genus, Cercidiphyllum, which includes two or three species of deciduous trees. The trees are known for their unique heart-shaped leaves and their ability to produce a sweet scent similar to cotton candy or caramel during the fall season. Cercidiphyllaceae is commonly used as ornamental trees in gardens and parks due to their aesthetic appeal.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota ||————-|———–|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Tracheophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Saxifragales || Family| Cercidiphyllaceae || Genus| Cercidiphyllum |
Appearance
Cercidiphyllaceae trees are deciduous and can grow up to 15-20 meters tall. They have a straight trunk and a pyramidal or conical shape when young, which becomes more rounded with age. The leaves are heart-shaped and can be up to 10 cm long and wide. The leaves turn yellow, red or purple in autumn, and the tree produces a sweet scent similar to cotton candy or caramel. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and the fruit is a small, dry capsule.
Care Guide
Cercidiphyllaceae trees require moderate care to thrive. Here are some tips for taking care of these trees:- Water: Cercidiphyllaceae trees prefer well-draining soil and should be watered moderately. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing the tree in late summer or early fall.- Soil: Cercidiphyllaceae trees prefer moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: These trees prefer partial shade to full sun. Young trees should be protected from direct sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: Cercidiphyllaceae trees can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cercidiphyllaceae trees are relatively pest- and disease-resistant. However, they can be susceptible to the following pests and diseases:- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots to appear on the leaves.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating to appear on the leaves.- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to curl or deform.
Habitat
Cercidiphyllaceae trees are native to East Asia and North America. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and stream banks. In their native habitats, they are often found growing alongside other deciduous trees such as oaks, maples, and birches.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cercidiphyllaceae trees be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Cercidiphyllaceae trees can be grown in containers, but they may not grow as large as those planted in the ground.
Q: How often should Cercidiphyllaceae trees be pruned?
A: Cercidiphyllaceae trees should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: How long do Cercidiphyllaceae trees live?
A: Cercidiphyllaceae trees can live up to 50 years or more with proper care.
Q: Are Cercidiphyllaceae trees tolerant of pollution?
A: Yes, Cercidiphyllaceae trees are tolerant of pollution and are often planted in urban areas.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the same family as Cercidiphyllaceae:- Saxifragales- Altingiaceae- Hamamelidaceae- Styracaceae
References
– “Cercidiphyllum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed November 12, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c556.- “Cercidiphyllaceae.” The Plant List. Accessed November 12, 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/browse/A/Cercidiphyllaceae/.
