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Description
Combretum Rotundifolium, commonly known as the “Bushwillow,” is a plant species that is native to Africa. It belongs to the Combretaceae family and is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 8 meters in height. It has a rounded crown and produces small yellow-green flowers in summer, followed by small fruits that are reddish-brown in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Combretaceae |
| Genus | Combretum |
Appearance
The Combretum Rotundifolium has a rough and flaky bark that is gray-brown in color. Its leaves are round and have a glossy green color with a leathery texture. The leaves are arranged opposite each other on the stem and have a length of 3-9 cm. The tree produces small yellow-green flowers that are approximately 7 mm in diameter. The fruit is a small, reddish-brown drupe that is about 1 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
The Combretum Rotundifolium requires moderate watering and should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. It prefers well-draining soil and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. The plant requires full sunlight and can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C). It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Combretum Rotundifolium is susceptible to infestations of spider mites and thrips. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to root rot if overwatered, so it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining. Other common diseases include leaf spot and powdery mildew.
Habitat
The Combretum Rotundifolium is native to Africa and is commonly found in savannas and woodlands. It is a drought-tolerant species and can survive in areas with low rainfall. The tree is also used for its wood, which is used for making furniture and charcoal.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Combretum Rotundifolium toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that the plant is toxic to pets, but it is always best to keep pets away from any plants that you are unsure of.
Q: Can the Combretum Rotundifolium be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with adequate drainage and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Combretum Rotundifolium?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can the Combretum Rotundifolium be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from cuttings taken in spring or summer. The cuttings should be placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until they root.
Related Plants
- Combretum Imberbe
- Combretum Paniculatum
- Combretum Zeyheri
References
- “Combretum Rotundifolium – Bushwillow.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute. https://pza.sanbi.org/combretum-rotundifolium
- “Combretum Rotundifolium.” The Plant List, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2737823
- “Combretum Rotundifolium.” Floridata. https://floridata.com/Plants/Combretaceae/Combretum+rotundifolium/1149
