Detarium
Contents
Description
Detarium is a genus of tropical trees that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to Africa, where it is commonly found in the savannah and rainforest regions. It is known for its unique fruit, which is a large, woody pod that contains edible seeds. The fruit is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as diarrhea, fever, and inflammation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Detarium |
Appearance
Detarium trees can grow up to 20 meters tall and have a spreading canopy. The leaves are pinnate and can grow up to 30 centimeters long. The flowers are small and white, and they bloom in clusters. The fruit is a large, woody pod that can grow up to 30 centimeters long and 15 centimeters wide. It is green when immature and turns brown when ripe. The seeds are edible and have a sweet, nutty flavor.
Care Guide
Detarium trees require regular watering, especially during the dry season. They prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilizer can be applied in the form of compost or a balanced fertilizer. Detarium trees prefer full sunlight and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. They are hardy in zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Detarium trees are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, and fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can help prevent and control these problems.
Habitat
Detarium trees are native to Africa and are commonly found in the savannah and rainforest regions. They are also cultivated in other tropical regions, such as South America and Southeast Asia. They prefer well-draining soil and full sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Detarium fruit be eaten raw?
A: Yes, Detarium fruit can be eaten raw. The seeds have a sweet, nutty flavor.
Q: Is Detarium used in traditional medicine?
A: Yes, Detarium fruit is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as diarrhea, fever, and inflammation.
Q: What pests and diseases are Detarium trees susceptible to?
A: Detarium trees are susceptible to aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, and fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot.
Q: Where are Detarium trees native to?
A: Detarium trees are native to Africa and are commonly found in the savannah and rainforest regions.
Related Plants
- D. microcarpum
- D. senegalense
- D. macrocarpum
- D. guineense
- D. polyphyllum
References
- Detarium. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Detarium
- Detarium senegalense. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb/AFTPDFS/Detarium_senegalense.PDF
- Detarium. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.gbif.org/species/3193295
