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Description
Cinchona pubescens, commonly known as the Quinine Tree, is a small evergreen tree that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is native to the Andean forests of South America, particularly in Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia. The tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and has a trunk diameter of 30 cm. Its leaves are simple, opposite, oval, and have a hairy surface. The flowers are small, white, and arranged in clusters. The fruit is a small capsule containing numerous seeds. Cinchona pubescens is known for its medicinal properties. Its bark contains quinine, an alkaloid that is used to treat malaria. The bark is harvested by stripping it from the tree, then dried and ground into a powder. Quinine is also used to treat leg cramps, arthritis, and lupus.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Cinchona |
Appearance
Cinchona pubescens is a small evergreen tree with a bushy crown. Its leaves are opposite, oval-shaped, and hairy on both sides. They are dark green on the upper surface and lighter on the underside. The tree produces small white flowers that are arranged in clusters. The fruit is a small capsule that contains numerous seeds. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown and rough to the touch.
Care Guide
Cinchona pubescens is a relatively low-maintenance tree. Here are some tips for keeping it healthy:- Water: The tree prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water it regularly, especially during dry periods.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer to encourage growth.- Soil: The tree prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types.- Sunlight: The tree prefers partial shade, but it can tolerate full sun.- Hardiness Zones: Cinchona pubescens is hardy in zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cinchona pubescens is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:- Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause discoloration and distortion of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.- Scale insects: These insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and a sticky residue on the bark. Use horticultural oil to control them.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly drained soil. To prevent it, make sure the soil is well-drained and do not overwater.
Habitat
Cinchona pubescens is native to the Andean forests of South America, particularly in Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia. It grows at altitudes of 1,000 to 3,000 meters above sea level. The tree prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Cinchona pubescens indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow Cinchona pubescens indoors as long as it receives enough light and humidity.
Q: How often should I water Cinchona pubescens?
A: Water the tree regularly, especially during dry periods. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Q: How long does it take for Cinchona pubescens to produce bark?
A: It takes about 7 years for Cinchona pubescens to produce bark that can be harvested.
Q: Is Cinchona pubescens endangered?
A: No, Cinchona pubescens is not currently listed as an endangered species. However, its habitat is threatened by deforestation and climate change.
Related Plants
– Cinchona officinalis- Cinchona ledgeriana- Cinchona succirubra- Cinchona calisaya
References
– “Cinchona pubescens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 18, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c890.- “Cinchona pubescens.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed August 18, 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:757277-1.- “Quinine.” National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Accessed August 18, 2021. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/quinine.
