Contents
Description
Crateva unilocularis, also known as the sacred garlic pear or the one-celled crateva, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Capparaceae. It is a small tree that grows up to 15 meters tall and is native to Southeast Asia, including countries like India, Indonesia, and Thailand. The plant is known for its unique and versatile uses, from being a potential source of timber to its medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Capparaceae |
| Genus | Crateva |
Appearance
The sacred garlic pear has a unique appearance, with its large, glossy green leaves that are oval in shape and grow up to 15 cm long. The plant produces beautiful, white flowers that are fragrant and grow up to 3 cm in diameter. The flowers bloom in clusters at the end of the branches and attract bees and butterflies. The fruit of the plant is a pear-shaped capsule that opens up to reveal a single seed. The bark of the tree is greyish-brown and smooth when young, but becomes rough and fissured as the tree ages.
Care Guide
Crateva unilocularis is relatively easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this versatile plant:- Water: The plant prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water it regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering in the winter.- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization but can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sun.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crateva unilocularis is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common issues. Here are some of the pests and diseases that can affect this plant:- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves of the plant. It can be treated with a fungicide.- Scale Insects: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. They can be treated with an insecticide.- Root Rot: This disease can be caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil. It can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged.
Habitat
Crateva unilocularis is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, swamps, and riverbanks. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Crateva unilocularis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with enough space and proper drainage.
Q: Is Crateva unilocularis poisonous to pets?
A: The plant is not known to be toxic to pets, but it is always best to keep pets away from any plants they may ingest.
Q: Can Crateva unilocularis be pruned?
A: Yes, the plant can be pruned to maintain its shape and size. Prune in the spring before new growth appears.
Q: What is Crateva unilocularis used for?
A: The plant has a variety of uses, including as a source of timber, as a medicinal plant, and as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that are also part of the Capparaceae family:- Capparis spinosa (caper bush)- Cleome gynandra (spiderflower)- Polanisia dodecandra (clammyweed)
References
– “Crateva unilocularis (Roxb.) L.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, accessed 18 Oct. 2021, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:323056-2.- “Crateva unilocularis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c426.
