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Description
Chiranthodendron Pentadactylon, commonly known as the Mexican hand tree, is a beautiful tree native to Mexico. This tree is famous for its unique appearance and bright red flowers that resemble a hand with five fingers. The tree belongs to the family of Malvaceae and is a deciduous type.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Chiranthodendron |
Appearance
The Mexican hand tree grows up to 30 feet tall and has a wide-spreading canopy. Its leaves are large, dark green, and glossy, with a leathery texture. The tree’s most prominent feature is its unique flowers, which bloom in the winter and early spring. The flowers are deep red, tubular in shape, and have five petals that resemble fingers. They can grow up to 6 inches long and are a stunning sight to behold.
Care Guide
The Mexican hand tree is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and regular watering, especially during the growing season. The tree also benefits from occasional fertilization, but be careful not to over-fertilize as it can damage the roots. The Mexican hand tree thrives in full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Mexican hand tree is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if over-watered or planted in poorly-draining soil. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid over-watering.
Habitat
The Mexican hand tree is native to the mountains of southern Mexico, where it grows in cloud forests at elevations between 4,500 and 7,500 feet. The tree is well-adapted to the cool, moist conditions of its natural habitat and can be challenging to grow in hot, dry climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Mexican hand trees easy to grow?
A: Yes, Mexican hand trees are generally easy to grow and require minimal care.
Q: When do Mexican hand trees bloom?
A: Mexican hand trees bloom in the winter and early spring.
Q: Can Mexican hand trees tolerate full sun?
A: Yes, Mexican hand trees can tolerate full sun to partial shade.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Mexican hand trees?
A: Mexican hand trees are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Abutilon megapotamicum
- Gossypium
- Malva
- Sida
References
- “Chiranthodendron Pentadactylon.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286036. Accessed 25 Sept. 2021.
- “Mexican Hand Tree.” San Francisco Botanical Garden, www.sfbotanicalgarden.org/garden/bloom_02_13.shtml. Accessed 25 Sept. 2021.
- “Chiranthodendron Pentadactylon.” Encyclopædia Britannica, www.britannica.com/plant/Chiranthodendron-pentadactylon. Accessed 25 Sept. 2021.
