Dicorynia

Description

Dicorynia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Fabaceae, commonly known as the “Yellowheart” due to the yellow color of its heartwood. It is native to South America, particularly in the Amazon basin. The plant produces beautiful yellow flowers that bloom in clusters during the rainy season. The wood of the Dicorynia tree is highly valued for its durability and is used for flooring, decking, and furniture.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Dicorynia trees can grow up to 30 meters in height, with a trunk diameter of up to 1 meter. The bark is grayish-brown and rough. The leaves are pinnately compound, with 5-9 leaflets that are 5-10 cm long and 2-4 cm wide. The flowers are yellow and occur in clusters of 10-20. The fruit is a flat, oblong pod that is 10-20 cm long and 3-5 cm wide. The wood of the Dicorynia tree is yellowish-brown, with a fine texture and interlocked grain.

Care Guide

Dicorynia trees grow best in well-drained soil and full sunlight. They require regular watering, especially during the dry season. Fertilization should be done during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. Dicorynia trees are hardy in USDA zones 10-12.

Common Pests & Diseases

Dicorynia trees are susceptible to various pests and diseases, including termites, borers, and leaf-eating insects. Diseases such as root rot and fungal infections can also affect the plant. Regular inspection and treatment with appropriate pesticides and fungicides can help prevent and control these problems.

Habitat

Dicorynia trees are native to South America, particularly in the Amazon basin. They grow in tropical rainforests and are found in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the wood of Dicorynia tree used for?

A: The wood of Dicorynia tree is highly valued for its durability and is used for flooring, decking, and furniture.

Q: What are the common pests that affect Dicorynia trees?

A: Dicorynia trees are susceptible to termites, borers, and leaf-eating insects.

Q: What is the growing zone for Dicorynia trees?

A: Dicorynia trees are hardy in USDA zones 10-12.

Q: Where are Dicorynia trees commonly found?

A: Dicorynia trees are native to South America, particularly in the Amazon basin. They are found in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela.

Related Plants

• Dalbergia
• Pterocarpus
• Brosimum
• Swietenia

References

• “Dicorynia.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 9 Aug. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dicorynia.
• “Yellowheart.” The Wood Database – Lumber Identification (Hardwood), 2021, www.wood-database.com/yellowheart/.
• “Dicorynia spp.” World Agroforestry Centre, 2021, agroforestree.wur.nl/Database/Descriptions/Dicorynia_spp..html.