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Endospermum

Endospermum

Description

Endospermum is a genus of flowering plants in the family Euphorbiaceae, commonly known as the ironwood family. It includes approximately 20 species of trees and shrubs that are native to Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and Australia. The leaves of Endospermum plants are simple, alternate, and have a glossy appearance. The flowers are small and insignificant, but the fruit is a capsule that contains three seeds.

Taxonomic Information

Domain Eukaryota
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Tracheophyta
Class Magnoliopsida
Order Malpighiales
Family Euphorbiaceae
Genus Endospermum

Appearance

Endospermum plants are medium to large-sized trees or shrubs that can grow up to 25 meters tall. The bark is rough, scaly, and fissured, with a reddish-brown color. The leaves are leathery, glossy, and dark green, with a lanceolate shape that can grow up to 20 cm long. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and grow in clusters on the axils of the leaves. The fruit is a three-valved capsule that contains three seeds. The seeds are black and shiny and have a hard outer shell.

Care Guide

Endospermum plants require moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for these plants:

Water

Endospermum plants require regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.

Fertilization

Endospermum plants require regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.

Soil

Endospermum plants prefer well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6-7).

Sunlight

Endospermum plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They require at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow and thrive.

Hardiness Zones

Endospermum plants are hardy to USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Endospermum plants are relatively pest and disease-free. However, they may be susceptible to the following:

Pests

  • Scale insects
  • Aphids
  • Mealybugs

Diseases

  • Leaf spot
  • Powdery mildew
  • Root rot

Habitat

Endospermum plants are native to Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and Australia. They prefer tropical and subtropical climates and can be found in lowland rainforests and secondary forests. They are often used for timber and fuelwood due to their high-density wood.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Endospermum plant?

A: Endospermum plants require regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Endospermum plants?

A: Endospermum plants are hardy to USDA zones 9-11.

Q: Are Endospermum plants susceptible to any pests?

A: Endospermum plants may be susceptible to scale insects, aphids, and mealybugs.

Q: What is the habitat of Endospermum plants?

A: Endospermum plants are native to Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and Australia. They prefer tropical and subtropical climates and can be found in lowland rainforests and secondary forests.

Related Plants

  • Macaranga
  • Phyllanthus
  • Croton
  • Ricinus

References

  • Flora of China. (n.d.). Endospermum. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/
  • Flora of Thailand. (n.d.). Endospermum. Retrieved from http://www.thaiplants.org/
  • World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. (n.d.). Endospermum. Retrieved from http://wcsp.science.kew.org/

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