Combretum Molle

Description

Combretum Molle, commonly known as Velvet Bushwillow, is a deciduous tree belonging to the Combretaceae family. It is native to Africa and can grow up to 12 meters tall. The tree has a thick trunk and a rounded canopy with drooping branches. The leaves are opposite, simple, and oval-shaped, with a velvety texture on both sides. It produces small, fragrant, cream-colored flowers in dense clusters that bloom in the summer. The fruit is a four-winged samara that ripens in the fall.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Combretum Molle is a beautiful tree with a unique appearance. Its leaves have a velvety texture on both sides, which makes them stand out from other trees. The tree produces small, fragrant, cream-colored flowers in dense clusters that bloom in the summer. The fruit is a four-winged samara that adds to the tree’s aesthetic appeal. The tree has a thick trunk and a rounded canopy with drooping branches that add to its beauty.

Care Guide

Combretum Molle is a low-maintenance tree that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you take care of your Velvet Bushwillow:

• Water: The tree needs regular watering, especially during the dry season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: The tree does not require much fertilizer. You can fertilize it once a year with a slow-release fertilizer.
• Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
• Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Combretum Molle is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to the following pests and diseases:

• Mealybugs: These insects can infest the tree and cause damage to the leaves and stems. You can control mealybugs by spraying the tree with insecticidal soap.
• Scales: These insects can also infest the tree and cause damage to the leaves and stems. You can control scales by spraying the tree with horticultural oil.
• Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. You can control leaf spot by removing infected leaves and spraying the tree with a fungicide.
• Rust: This fungal disease can cause orange spots on the leaves. You can control rust by removing infected leaves and spraying the tree with a fungicide.

Habitat

Combretum Molle is native to Africa and can be found in a variety of habitats, including savannas, woodlands, and grasslands. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought and fire.

Question and Answer

• Q: Can Combretum Molle tolerate drought?
• A: Yes, it can tolerate drought.
• Q: How often should I water my Velvet Bushwillow?
• A: You should water your tree regularly, especially during the dry season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Q: What is the hardiness zone for Combretum Molle?
• A: The tree is hardy in zones 9-11.
• Q: What pests and diseases can affect Combretum Molle?
• A: The tree can be susceptible to mealybugs, scales, leaf spot, and rust.

Related Plants

• Combretum erythrophyllum
• Combretum paniculatum
• Combretum zeyheri
• Combretum kraussii

References

• “Combretum molle.” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 20 Feb. 2022.
• “Combretum molle.” Flora of Zimbabwe. n.p., n.d. Web. 20 Feb. 2022.
• “Combretum molle.” Trees and Shrubs Online. n.p., n.d. Web. 20 Feb. 2022.