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Description
Cyrilla Racemiflora, also known as Swamp Cyrilla or Titi, is a small tree that belongs to the Cyrillaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States, where it is admired for its attractive foliage and flowers. The tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and 15 feet wide, with a rounded or irregular shape. Its leaves are evergreen, elliptical or lance-shaped, and shiny. The tree produces small, white or pink flowers in late spring or early summer, which are followed by small fruits that resemble tiny apples.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Cyrillaceae |
| Genus | Cyrilla |
Appearance
Cyrilla Racemiflora has attractive foliage that remains green throughout the year. Its leaves are evergreen, elliptical or lance-shaped, shiny, and about 2-4 inches long. In late spring or early summer, the tree produces small, white or pink flowers that are about 1/4 inch in diameter. The flowers are followed by small, reddish-brown fruits that are about 1/2 inch in diameter and resemble tiny apples. The tree has a rounded or irregular shape and can grow up to 30 feet tall and 15 feet wide.
Care Guide
Cyrilla Racemiflora is a low-maintenance tree that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: The tree prefers moist soil, but it can also tolerate occasional drought. Water it regularly during dry spells.
- Fertilization: The tree does not require fertilization, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring if desired.
- Soil: The tree prefers acidic, well-drained soil, but it can also tolerate clay or sandy soil.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade, but it can also tolerate full shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Cyrilla Racemiflora is hardy in USDA Zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cyrilla Racemiflora is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by scale insects, spider mites, or leaf spot. If you notice any problems, treat the tree with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Cyrilla Racemiflora is native to the southeastern United States, where it grows in wetlands, swamps, and lowlands. The tree prefers moist soil and can tolerate flooding. It is often found growing alongside other wetland trees, such as bald cypress, tupelo, and red maple.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cyrilla Racemiflora a good tree for landscaping?
A: Yes, Cyrilla Racemiflora is an attractive tree that can be used in landscaping. Its evergreen foliage and pretty flowers make it a great choice for a focal point or accent tree.
Q: Can Cyrilla Racemiflora be grown in containers?
A: No, Cyrilla Racemiflora is not suitable for container growing. It requires moist soil and can grow up to 30 feet tall, making it too large for most containers.
Q: Does Cyrilla Racemiflora have any cultural significance?
A: Yes, Cyrilla Racemiflora has cultural significance for some Native American tribes, who have used its bark and roots for medicinal purposes.
Q: Is Cyrilla Racemiflora a threatened species?
A: No, Cyrilla Racemiflora is not considered a threatened species. However, it is sometimes harvested for its bark and roots, which can impact its populations in some areas.
Related Plants
- Cyrilla Arborescens
- Cyrilla Foetida
- Cyrilla Racemosa
- Cyrilla Zambesica
References
- “Cyrilla Racemiflora.” Floridata. Accessed 20 May 2021. <https://floridata.com/plant/976>.
- “Cyrilla Racemiflora.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 20 May 2021. <https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CYRA>.
- “Cyrilla Racemiflora.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 20 May 2021. <https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=CYRA3>.
