Contents
Description
Erythrophleum, also known as the African teak, is a genus of flowering plants that belong to the Fabaceae family. It is native to tropical Africa and is commonly found in the savannas, woodlands, and forests. The plant has a wide range of uses including medicinal, ornamental, and industrial purposes. The bark of the plant is commonly used in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, malaria, and stomach problems. The wood of the plant is also used for furniture, flooring, and construction.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Erythrophleum |
Appearance
Erythrophleum is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 30 meters in height. The tree has a dense and rounded crown with dark green leaves that are pinnate and glossy. The flowers of the plant are small and yellow, and the fruit is a pod that is about 10-15 cm long. The bark of the tree is grey and smooth when young, but it becomes rough and fissured as the tree ages.
Care Guide
Erythrophleum is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of the plant:
- Water: Erythrophleum requires regular watering during the growing season, but it should be allowed to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization, but it can benefit from occasional applications of a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Erythrophleum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Erythrophleum is suitable for growing in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erythrophleum is generally a pest and disease-free plant, but it can occasionally be affected by the following:
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause discoloration and damage to the leaves of the plant.
- Powdery Mildew: This disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves of the plant.
- Canker: This disease can cause sunken areas on the bark of the tree, and it can eventually lead to the death of the plant.
Habitat
Erythrophleum is native to tropical Africa and can be found in a variety of habitats including savannas, woodlands, and forests. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It is also tolerant of drought and can survive in areas with low rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Erythrophleum?
A: The bark of the plant is commonly used in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, malaria, and stomach problems.
Q: What is the lifespan of Erythrophleum?
A: Erythrophleum can live for up to 100 years.
Q: Is Erythrophleum a hardwood or a softwood?
A: Erythrophleum is a hardwood.
Q: Can Erythrophleum be grown as a houseplant?
A: Erythrophleum is not suitable for growing as a houseplant as it requires full sun and a large amount of space to grow.
Related Plants
- Erythrophleum suaveolens
- Erythrophleum ivorense
- Erythrophleum africanum
References
- “Erythrophleum.” World Agroforestry Centre. Accessed 21 July 2021. https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/speciesprofile.php?Spid=1633
- “Erythrophleum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 21 July 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287164
- “Erythrophleum.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 21 July 2021. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30033716-2
