Contents
1. Description
Diphysa Occidentalis, commonly known as the West Indian boxwood or Guatemalan boxwood, is a tropical tree species belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Central America, Mexico, and South America. This evergreen tree can grow up to 30 meters tall with a trunk diameter of up to 1 meter. It has a dense crown of dark green leaves that are ovate in shape and measure about 5-10 cm long. The flowers of Diphysa Occidentalis are small and white, and the fruit is a pod that contains seeds.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Diphysa |
3. Appearance
Diphysa Occidentalis has a beautiful, symmetrical canopy with dense foliage of dark green leaves that have a glossy texture. The leaves measure about 5-10 cm long and 3-5 cm wide, and they are ovate in shape with a pointed tip. The bark of the tree is smooth and gray in color when young and turns rough and dark brown with age. The tree produces small, white flowers that are fragrant and bloom in clusters. The fruit of Diphysa Occidentalis is a pod that measures around 7-12 cm long and contains seeds.
4. Care Guide
Diphysa Occidentalis is a low-maintenance tree that requires little care once established. Here are some care tips to keep your tree healthy and thriving:- Water: Diphysa Occidentalis prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter months.- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring. – Soil: Diphysa Occidentalis thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. – Sunlight: This tree prefers full sun to partial shade. – Hardiness Zones: Diphysa Occidentalis is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
Diphysa Occidentalis is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
6. Habitat
Diphysa Occidentalis is native to Central America, Mexico, and South America. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions and prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The tree is commonly found in lowland forests, riverbanks, and disturbed areas.
7. Question and Answer
Q: How fast does Diphysa Occidentalis grow?
A: Diphysa Occidentalis is a slow-growing tree that can take up to 10 years to reach its full height of 30 meters.
Q: Can Diphysa Occidentalis be grown in a container?
A: While Diphysa Occidentalis can be grown in a container, it is not recommended as the tree can grow quite large and requires ample space to thrive.
Q: Is Diphysa Occidentalis drought-tolerant?
A: While Diphysa Occidentalis can tolerate some drought, it prefers moist soil and regular watering.
Q: Does Diphysa Occidentalis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Diphysa Occidentalis is known to attract birds and butterflies with its fragrant flowers and edible seeds.
9. Related Plants
– Diphysa Robinioides- Diphysa Carthagenensis- Diphysa Hirsuta
10. References
– “Diphysa Occidentalis – West Indian Boxwood.” Floridata. Accessed 5 May 2021. https://floridata.com/Plants/Fabaceae/Diphysa%20occidentalis/1384.- “Diphysa Occidentalis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 5 May 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c684.
