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Description
Cornus Capitata Subsp. Angustata, also known as Himalayan Strawberry Tree, is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that belongs to the Cornaceae family. It is native to the Himalayas, from Afghanistan to Bhutan, and can grow up to 10 metres tall. The tree produces clusters of small yellowish flowers that bloom in late spring, followed by bright red strawberry-like fruit that ripens in late autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota||————|—————|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Spermatophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Cornales|| Family| Cornaceae|| Genus| Cornus|| Subspecies | Angustata|
Appearance
The Himalayan Strawberry Tree has an upright growth habit and a dense, rounded canopy. Its leaves are glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped, with a length of 6-12 cm and a width of 3-6 cm. The tree’s bark is smooth and light brown, with pale horizontal stripes. Its flowers are small and yellowish, with a diameter of about 5 mm, and are followed by bright red fruits that resemble strawberries, with a diameter of 2-3 cm.
Care Guide
Cornus Capitata Subsp. Angustata is relatively easy to care for. It prefers a well-draining soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH range of 5.0-6.5. The tree requires regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth, but be careful not to overwater it. Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer in spring and autumn. It grows best in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Himalayan Strawberry Tree is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. It may also attract aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. To control these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Cornus Capitata Subsp. Angustata is native to the Himalayas, from Afghanistan to Bhutan, where it grows in forests and on hillsides at elevations of 1,500-3,000 metres.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cornus Capitata Subsp. Angustata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the roots and that the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Himalayan Strawberry Tree?
A: Fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer in spring and autumn.
Q: Is the fruit of Cornus Capitata Subsp. Angustata edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible, but it has a tart taste and is not widely consumed.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cornus Capitata Subsp. Angustata?
A: It can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C and is hardy to USDA zones 7-10.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Cornus genus:- Cornus officinalis- Cornus kousa- Cornus florida- Cornus mas- Cornus sericea
References
– “Cornus Capitata Subsp. Angustata.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/cornuscapitatasubspangus.htm.- “Himalayan Strawberry Tree.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/12302/Cornus-capitata-subsp-angustata/Details.
