Delavaya Toxocarpa
Contents
Description
Delavaya Toxocarpa, commonly known as Chinese Delavayea, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Rutaceae family. It is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall and wide. The plant is native to China and is commonly found in the Yunnan province.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Delavaya |
Appearance
The Delavaya Toxocarpa plant has unique, attractive foliage that makes it an excellent ornamental plant. The leaves are pinnate and can grow up to 12 cm long and 6 cm wide. They are shiny and have a dark green color. The plant produces small, fragrant, white flowers that bloom in clusters during spring and summer. The fruit is a capsule that contains seeds.
Care Guide
The Delavaya Toxocarpa plant is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the package for the best results.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid using heavy clay soil, which can cause root rot.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full to partial sunlight. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can cause leaf scorch.
- Hardiness Zones: Delavaya Toxocarpa is hardy in USDA Zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Delavaya Toxocarpa plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
The Delavaya Toxocarpa plant is native to China and is commonly found in the Yunnan province. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and rocky areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Delavaya Toxocarpa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Delavaya Toxocarpa can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining soil mix and make sure the container has drainage holes.
Q: How often should I fertilize Delavaya Toxocarpa?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How often should I water Delavaya Toxocarpa?
A: Water the plant regularly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Q: What is the best time to prune Delavaya Toxocarpa?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Cut back any dead or damaged branches and shape the plant as desired.
Related Plants
- Delavaya splendens
- Delavaya racemosa
- Delavaya toxocarpa var. pubescens
References
- “Delavaya Toxocarpa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287920.
- “Delavaya Toxocarpa.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/202782/.
- “Delavaya Toxocarpa.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/162939/Delavaya-toxocarpa/Details.
