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Description
Dracontomelon Duperreanum, commonly known as the New Guinea chestnut or the Sepak tree, is a deciduous tree native to Southeast Asia, specifically Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. It is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 25 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 70 centimeters. The tree has a dense crown of large, compound leaves that can span up to 70 centimeters. The tree’s flowers are small and white and bloom between March and May, while its fruit is a large, round, greenish-yellow drupe that contains a single seed. The fruit is edible but is primarily used in traditional medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Dracontomelon |
| Species | D. Duperreanum |
Appearance
The Dracontomelon Duperreanum is a medium-sized tree with a dense crown of large, compound leaves that can span up to 70 centimeters. The leaves are pinnate, with numerous leaflets that are lance-shaped and have serrated edges. The tree’s flowers are small, white, and bloom between March and May. Its fruit is a large, round, greenish-yellow drupe that contains a single seed. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown and has a rough, scaly texture.
Care Guide
To care for a Dracontomelon Duperreanum, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and to consider its hardiness zones. The plant requires regular watering, particularly during the dry season. It also requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The tree prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Dracontomelon Duperreanum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to leaf spot and root rot if it is overwatered. Anthracnose and powdery mildew may also affect the tree’s leaves. Additionally, the tree may attract sap-sucking insects such as aphids and mealybugs.
Habitat
The Dracontomelon Duperreanum is native to Southeast Asia, specifically Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. It is commonly found in lowland and hill forests, particularly in areas with well-drained soils.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Dracontomelon Duperreanum a fruit-bearing tree?
A: Yes, the tree produces large, edible fruit that is primarily used in traditional medicine.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Dracontomelon Duperreanum?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Q: How tall can the Dracontomelon Duperreanum grow?
A: The tree can grow up to 25 meters tall.
Q: Is the Dracontomelon Duperreanum a fast-growing plant?
A: Yes, the tree is known for its fast growth rate.
Related Plants
- Dracontomelon Mangiferum
- Dracontomelon Edule
- Dracontomelon Dao
References
- “Dracontomelon Duperreanum.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science.
- “Dracontomelon Duperreanum.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Dracontomelon Duperreanum.” Flora of China. Missouri Botanical Garden.
