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Description
Cojoba Arborea is a tropical tree native to the Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is known for its stunning flowers and foliage. It grows up to 30 meters tall and has a broad, spreading crown. The tree has a smooth, gray bark and produces pods that are up to 20 cm long. The pods contain seeds that are used for medicinal purposes in some cultures.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Cojoba |
Appearance
The leaves of Cojoba Arborea are compound and can be up to 30 cm long. They are dark green and shiny on the upper side and pale green on the lower side. The flowers are arranged in clusters and are yellow or cream-colored. They have a sweet fragrance and are attractive to bees and butterflies. The tree produces pods that are green when young and turn brown as they mature. The pods split open to reveal the seeds, which are black and shiny.
Care Guide
Cojoba Arborea is a low-maintenance tree that requires little care once established. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: Cojoba Arborea prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Cojoba Arborea grows best in fertile, well-drained soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
- Sunlight: Cojoba Arborea prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well in shady locations.
- Hardiness Zones: Cojoba Arborea is hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cojoba Arborea is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-drained soil. The tree may also be attacked by spider mites or scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Cojoba Arborea grows in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, dry forests, and disturbed areas. It is native to the Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America. The tree is often grown as an ornamental in tropical and subtropical regions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cojoba Arborea drought-tolerant?
A: While Cojoba Arborea can tolerate some drought, it prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly.
Q: Can Cojoba Arborea be grown in a container?
A: Cojoba Arborea can be grown in a container when young, but it will eventually outgrow the container and need to be planted in the ground.
Q: Does Cojoba Arborea require pruning?
A: Cojoba Arborea does not require pruning, but it can be pruned to maintain a desired shape or size.
Q: What is the best time of year to plant Cojoba Arborea?
A: Cojoba Arborea can be planted at any time of year in tropical and subtropical regions. In cooler climates, it is best to plant the tree in the spring or early summer.
Related Plants
- Cojoba Raimondii
- Cojoba Prunifera
- Cojoba Bicolor
References
- “Cojoba arborea.” Floridata, www.floridata.com/plant/10219.
- “Cojoba arborea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b250.
- “Cojoba arborea.” USDA Plants Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=COAR15.
