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Description
Emmenopterys Henryi, also known as the “golden rain tree,” is a rare and beautiful tree that is native to China. It belongs to the Rubiaceae family and is highly valued for its ornamental value. The tree is known for its large clusters of fragrant, white flowers that bloom in late summer. The flowers are followed by golden brown fruits that resemble raindrops, hence the name “golden rain tree.”
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Emmenopterys |
Appearance
Emmenopterys Henryi is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 10-15 meters tall. The tree has a broad, spreading crown and a straight trunk that is covered with gray-brown bark. The leaves are simple, opposite, and ovate in shape, measuring up to 20 cm in length. They are dark green in color and turn yellow in the fall. The most striking feature of Emmenopterys Henryi is its large clusters of fragrant, white flowers that bloom in late summer. Each cluster can contain up to 400 individual flowers, each measuring up to 1 cm in diameter. The flowers are followed by golden brown fruits that resemble raindrops and can persist on the tree into the winter months.
Care Guide
Emmenopterys Henryi requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The tree prefers a slightly acidic soil pH of 5.5-6.5. It should be planted in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Water regularly during the growing season, especially during periods of drought. Fertilize the tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, and then again in mid-summer with a fertilizer that is high in potassium. Emmenopterys Henryi is hardy in USDA zones 7-10. It is best to protect the tree from extreme cold and wind.
Common Pests & Diseases
Emmenopterys Henryi is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
Emmenopterys Henryi is native to China, where it grows in moist, forested areas at elevations of 1,000-2,000 meters. The tree prefers a cool, humid climate and is often found near streams and rivers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Emmenopterys Henryi be grown in containers?
A: It is not recommended to grow Emmenopterys Henryi in containers, as the tree has a deep root system and requires a lot of space to grow.
Q: How often should I prune Emmenopterys Henryi?
A: Prune Emmenopterys Henryi in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and thin out any overcrowded or crossing branches.
Q: How long does it take for Emmenopterys Henryi to bloom?
A: Emmenopterys Henryi typically takes 5-7 years to bloom from seed. However, the tree can also be propagated from cuttings to speed up the process.
Q: Is Emmenopterys Henryi drought-tolerant?
A: While Emmenopterys Henryi can tolerate some drought, it prefers consistently moist soil and should be watered regularly during the growing season.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Rubiaceae family include:
- Coffee (Coffea arabica)
- Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides)
- Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)
- Madagascar periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus)
References
- “Emmenopterys Henryi: Golden Rain Tree.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c180.
- “Emmenopterys Henryi.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/347201/Emmenopterys-Henryi/Details.
- “Emmenopterys.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantefg/emmenopteryshenryi.htm.
