Contents
Description
Dryobalanops Aromatica, commonly known as the Borneo Camphor, is a tall evergreen tree that can grow up to 65m in height. It is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in the Borneo region. Its leaves are large and glossy, with a dark green color, and its flowers are small and white. The tree produces a resin that has a camphor-like scent.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Dipterocarpaceae |
| Genus | Dryobalanops |
Appearance
Dryobalanops Aromatica is a large tree with a straight, cylindrical trunk and a broad, conical crown. Its bark is rough and fissured, with a dark brown color. The leaves are alternate, simple, elliptical, and leathery, with a length of 10-25cm and a width of 5-10cm. The flowers are small and white, and they bloom in clusters from the axils of the leaves. The fruit is a woody capsule that contains winged seeds.
Care Guide
Water
Dryobalanops Aromatica requires moderate watering, particularly during its growth period. It is important to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
The tree requires regular fertilization to maintain its growth and health. A slow-release fertilizer with a balanced NPK ratio is recommended.
Soil
The tree thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels, but a slightly acidic to neutral pH is optimal.
Sunlight
Dryobalanops Aromatica prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce its growth and vigor.
Hardiness Zones
The tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dryobalanops Aromatica is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including termites, borers, leaf-eating caterpillars, and fungal infections. Regular monitoring and treatment can help prevent and control infestations.
Habitat
Dryobalanops Aromatica is native to the lowland rainforests of Southeast Asia, particularly in the Borneo region. It thrives in warm and humid environments, with an average temperature of 23-27°C and an annual rainfall of 2000-4000mm.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dryobalanops Aromatica a fast-growing tree?
A: No, it is not a fast-growing tree. It has a moderate growth rate.
Q: Can the resin of Dryobalanops Aromatica be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the resin has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, particularly for its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Q: Is Dryobalanops Aromatica an endangered species?
A: Yes, it is considered an endangered species due to habitat loss and overexploitation for timber.
Q: Can Dryobalanops Aromatica be grown as a bonsai?
A: Yes, it can be grown as a bonsai, but it requires careful pruning and training to maintain its shape and size.
Related Plants
- Dryobalanops Beccarii
- Dryobalanops Lanceolata
- Dryobalanops Sumatrensis
- Dryobalanops Oblongifolia
References
- Chua, L. S., & Latiff, A. (2017). Dryobalanops aromatica Gaertn. f. ex Benth. In Plant Resources of South-East Asia (No. 19): Timber trees: Minor commercial timbers.
- Kochummen, K. M., & Soepadmo, E. (1989). Dipterocarpaceae. In Tree Flora of Sabah and Sarawak (Vol. 3, pp. 1-411).
- Lee, S. S., & Ng, K. K. (2005). Plants and flowers of Malaysia. Times Editions.
