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Description
Eucryphia Lucida, commonly known as Leatherwood or Tarata, is a species of evergreen tree native to Chile and Argentina. It belongs to the family Cunoniaceae and is prized for its fragrant white flowers and glossy leaves. The tree can grow up to 60 feet tall and has a broad, conical shape. Its bark is smooth and brownish-grey, and its wood is hard and dense. Eucryphia Lucida blooms in late summer, producing a profusion of white flowers with yellow stamens that have a strong, sweet scent. The flowers are followed by small, woody capsules that contain numerous seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Cunoniaceae |
| Genus | Eucryphia |
| Species | Lucida |
Appearance
Eucryphia Lucida has glossy, dark green leaves that are lance-shaped and about 2-4 inches long. The leaves are arranged alternately on the branches and have finely serrated edges. The tree produces showy, fragrant white flowers in late summer that are about 2-3 inches wide. The flowers have yellow stamens and are followed by small, woody capsules that contain numerous seeds. Eucryphia Lucida has a broad, conical shape and can grow up to 60 feet tall. Its bark is smooth and brownish-grey, and its wood is hard and dense.
Care Guide
Eucryphia Lucida prefers moist, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It also needs full sun to partial shade to grow well. Water the tree deeply once a week, especially during dry spells. Fertilize the tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the tree in the late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased branches. Eucryphia Lucida is hardy to USDA zones 7-9 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eucryphia Lucida is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The tree can also be affected by root rot if it is grown in poorly-drained soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and do not overwater the tree.
Habitat
Eucryphia Lucida is native to Chile and Argentina, where it grows in forests and along streams at elevations of 1,000 to 7,000 feet. It prefers cool, moist climates and can tolerate occasional frosts.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eucryphia Lucida a good tree for landscaping?
A: Yes, Eucryphia Lucida is a beautiful tree that is commonly used in landscaping for its fragrant flowers and glossy leaves.
Q: Does Eucryphia Lucida require a lot of maintenance?
A: No, Eucryphia Lucida is a low-maintenance tree that only requires occasional watering and fertilizing.
Q: Can Eucryphia Lucida be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Eucryphia Lucida can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and the soil is well-drained.
Q: How long does it take for Eucryphia Lucida to bloom?
A: Eucryphia Lucida usually blooms in late summer, about 2-3 years after planting.
Related Plants
- Eucryphia Cordifolia
- Eucryphia Jinksii
- Eucryphia Moorei
- Eucryphia Nymanseyi
References
- “Eucryphia lucida.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 28 August 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282124&isprofile=0&=>
- “Eucryphia lucida.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 28 August 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/24669/eucryphia-lucida/details>
- “Leatherwood (Eucryphia lucida).” Garden Design. Accessed 28 August 2021. <https://www.gardendesign.com/trees/eucryphia-lucida.html>
