Commiphora Mollis

Description

Commiphora Mollis is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Burseraceae family. It is native to East Africa and is commonly known as the Velvet corkwood. The tree can grow up to 10 meters tall and has a smooth, grey-brown bark. The leaves are compound, with 3-5 leaflets, and have a velvety texture. The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a small, round capsule that contains a single seed.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Commiphora Mollis has a unique appearance due to its velvety leaves and smooth bark. The leaves are dark green and have a velvety texture on both sides. They are compound and have 3-5 leaflets that are arranged in a pinnate pattern. The tree’s bark is smooth and grey-brown, with vertical striations. The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a small, round capsule that contains a single seed. The tree can grow up to 10 meters tall and has a spreading canopy.

Care Guide

Water

Commiphora Mollis prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, the tree should be watered deeply once a week. In the winter, the tree should be watered sparingly.

Fertilization

The tree should be fertilized in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct amount to use.

Soil

Commiphora Mollis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.

Sunlight

The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Hardiness Zones

Commiphora Mollis can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Commiphora Mollis is susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. To prevent these pests, the tree should be sprayed with a horticultural oil in the spring. The tree is also susceptible to root rot if the soil is kept too wet.

Habitat

Commiphora Mollis is native to East Africa and is commonly found in dry, rocky areas. It can tolerate drought and is well adapted to hot, arid climates.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Commiphora Mollis a fast-growing tree?

A: No, Commiphora Mollis is a slow-growing tree.

Q: Does Commiphora Mollis require pruning?

A: Yes, the tree should be pruned in the winter to remove any dead or damaged branches.

Q: Can Commiphora Mollis be grown in a container?

A: Yes, the tree can be grown in a container but will require frequent watering and fertilization.

Q: Is Commiphora Mollis drought-tolerant?

A: Yes, Commiphora Mollis is well adapted to hot, arid climates and can tolerate drought.

Related Plants

• Commiphora africana
• Commiphora angolensis
• Commiphora erythraea
• Commiphora myrrha

References

• “Commiphora Mollis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c305. Accessed 26 Aug. 2021.
• “Commiphora Mollis.” PlantZAfrica, http://pza.sanbi.org/commiphora-mollis. Accessed 26 Aug. 2021.
• “Commiphora Mollis.” World Agroforestry Centre, www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb/AFTPDFS/Commiphora_mollis.PDF. Accessed 26 Aug. 2021.