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Description
Eschweilera Coriacea, also known as the Brazilian Ash, is a plant species that belongs to the family Lecythidaceae. It is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 45 meters in height, and it is native to the Atlantic Forest of Brazil. The tree has a straight trunk with a diameter of up to 1.5 meters, and its bark is gray or brown and smooth when young, but it becomes rough and scaly as the tree matures. The leaves are simple, alternate, and leathery, with a glossy dark green color on the upper surface and a lighter green color on the lower surface. The tree produces small yellowish-green flowers followed by a woody fruit that contains several seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Lecythidaceae |
| Genus | Eschweilera |
| Species | Coriacea |
Appearance
Eschweilera Coriacea is a large and impressive tree that can add beauty and grandeur to any landscape. The tree has a dense and rounded crown with a symmetrical shape, and it can be pruned to maintain its shape and size. The leaves of the tree are thick and tough, and they are resistant to damage from wind, drought, and pests. The tree produces small flowers that are not very showy, but they are followed by a woody fruit that can be used to propagate the tree. The bark of the tree is smooth and gray or brown when young, but it becomes rough and scaly as the tree matures, giving it a distinctive appearance.
Care Guide
Eschweilera Coriacea is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to ensure that it grows and thrives. Here are some tips on how to care for this unique plant:
Water: The tree needs to be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. It prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate some periods of drought. Be careful not to overwater the tree, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: The tree benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer in early spring and again in early summer.
Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it does best in slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade, but it can tolerate some shade. It is best to plant the tree in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Eschweilera Coriacea is hardy in USDA zones 9b to 11, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as 25°F (-3.9°C) to 40°F (4.4°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
Eschweilera Coriacea is generally a healthy and disease-resistant tree, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common problems to watch out for:
Scale insects: These insects can infest the tree and cause damage by sucking sap from the leaves and stems. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Fungal diseases: The tree can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring that the tree is planted in well-draining soil and that it is not overwatered.
Bacterial diseases: The tree can also be susceptible to bacterial diseases such as leaf blight and canker. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring that the tree is planted in well-draining soil and that it is not overwatered.
Habitat
Eschweilera Coriacea is native to the Atlantic Forest of Brazil, where it can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including lowland and montane forests. It prefers moist and well-draining soil, and it can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and humidity levels. The tree is an important source of food and shelter for a variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and insects.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Eschweilera Coriacea be grown in a container?
A: It is possible to grow Eschweilera Coriacea in a container, but it may not reach its full potential size. Make sure to choose a large container and a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. The tree will also need to be watered and fertilized regularly.
Q: How often should I prune Eschweilera Coriacea?
A: Eschweilera Coriacea should be pruned in early spring or late winter, before new growth appears. Prune any dead or damaged branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. You can also prune the tree to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Does Eschweilera Coriacea produce any useful products?
A: Yes, Eschweilera Coriacea is used for its wood, which is hard, dense, and durable. It is used for a variety of purposes, including furniture, flooring, and construction. The tree is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
Q: Is Eschweilera Coriacea an endangered species?
A: Yes, Eschweilera Coriacea is listed as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The tree is threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as by logging and other human activities.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants that are related to Eschweilera Coriacea:
- Eschweilera ovata
- Eschweilera tenuifolia
- Eschweilera parviflora
- Eschweilera alvimii
References
- Eschweilera Coriacea. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/32012/2812854
- Eschweilera Coriacea. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ESCO6
- Eschweilera Coriacea. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.gbif.org/species/3153755
