Contents
Description
Elaeocarpaceae is a family of flowering plants that belong to the order Oxalidales. The family has around 350 species of trees and shrubs that are found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. These plants are known for their attractive foliage and flowers, and some species are used for timber and medicinal purposes.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukaryota |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Spermatophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Oxalidales |
Family | Elaeocarpaceae |
Genus | Elaeocarpus |
Appearance
Elaeocarpaceae plants have a wide range of appearances, but most of them have glossy, dark green leaves that are simple and alternate. The flowers are usually white or pink, and they have five petals and sepals. The fruit is a drupe that can be round, oblong, or ovoid in shape, and it usually contains one or two seeds.
Care Guide
Here are some tips on how to care for Elaeocarpaceae plants:
- Water: These plants prefer moist soil, so you should water them regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilization: You can fertilize these plants with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer months.
- Soil: These plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: These plants prefer partial shade, but they can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
- Hardiness Zones: Elaeocarpaceae plants can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Elaeocarpaceae plants can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
- Scales: These insects can cause yellowing and stunting of the leaves.
- Caterpillars: These insects can eat the leaves and cause defoliation.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on the leaves.
- Root rot: This disease can be caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Elaeocarpaceae plants are found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including Asia, Australia, Africa, and the Americas. They grow in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, savannas, and mountain forests.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the most common use of Elaeocarpaceae plants?
A: Some species of Elaeocarpaceae plants are used for timber and medicinal purposes.
Q: Can Elaeocarpaceae plants grow in full sun?
A: Elaeocarpaceae plants prefer partial shade, but they can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
Q: What kind of soil do Elaeocarpaceae plants prefer?
A: Elaeocarpaceae plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Elaeocarpaceae plants?
A: Elaeocarpaceae plants can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Elaeagnaceae
- Oxalidaceae
- Balanopaceae
- Tiliaceae
References
- “Elaeocarpaceae.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 15 Nov. 2021.
- “Elaeocarpaceae.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 09 Nov. 2021. Web. 15 Nov. 2021.
- Dirr, Michael A. Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Portland, OR: Timber Press, 2011. Print.