Changiostyrax

Description

Changiostyrax is a genus of flowering plants in the family Styracaceae, native to South East Asia. It comprises two species of trees, Changiostyrax dolichocarpa and Changiostyrax fasciculatus, both of which are highly valued for their ornamental features. The genus name, Changiostyrax, is derived from the locality of Changi in Singapore and the Greek word for styrax, which refers to the sweet-smelling resin produced by the plant.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Changiostyrax trees are deciduous and can grow up to 20-40 feet tall. The bark is gray-brown and develops deep fissures as the tree ages. The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptical with a glossy dark green surface, turning yellow or red in the autumn. The flowers are tubular, fragrant, and white, with a diameter of up to 1.5 cm. They are arranged in clusters at the tips of the branches and bloom in early summer. The fruit is a dry capsule that splits open to release seeds.

Care Guide

Changiostyrax trees require well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. They prefer full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from -10°C to 40°C. Water the tree regularly, but avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot. Fertilize the tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer, and prune it in the winter to maintain its shape and promote new growth. Changiostyrax trees are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Changiostyrax trees are relatively pest-free, but they can be susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildew. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering, improve air circulation around the tree, and remove infected leaves. Aphids and scale insects may also infest the tree, which can be controlled by spraying the tree with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

Habitat

Changiostyrax trees are native to South East Asia and are commonly found in the tropical and subtropical regions of China, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand. They grow in a variety of habitats, including evergreen forests, mixed forests, and open woodlands, at elevations of up to 1,500 m.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the meaning of the genus name Changiostyrax?

A: The genus name is derived from the locality of Changi in Singapore and the Greek word for styrax, which refers to the sweet-smelling resin produced by the plant.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Changiostyrax trees?

A: Changiostyrax trees are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Q: How tall can Changiostyrax trees grow?

A: Changiostyrax trees can grow up to 20-40 feet tall.

Q: What pests and diseases can affect Changiostyrax trees?

A: Changiostyrax trees can be susceptible to leaf spot, powdery mildew, aphids, and scale insects.

Related Plants

• Styrax grandifolius
• Styrax japonicus
• Styrax obassia
• Styrax officinalis

References

• Changiostyrax. (n.d.). Flora of China. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org
• Changiostyrax. (n.d.). The Plant List. Retrieved from https://www.theplantlist.org
• Changiostyrax dolichocarpa. (n.d.). Trees of Stanford & Environs. Retrieved from https://trees.stanford.edu/ENCYC/CHAdol.htm
• Changiostyrax dolichocarpa. (n.d.). Plants of the World Online. Retrieved from http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/