Contents
Description
Fortunearia is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Oleaceae. There are only two known species of Fortunearia, which are native to China and Vietnam. These plants are deciduous shrubs or small trees that can grow up to 10 meters in height. They have opposite, simple leaves and produce small, fragrant flowers in clusters during the spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Fortunearia |
Appearance
Fortunearia plants have smooth, gray bark and opposite, simple leaves that are ovate to elliptic in shape. The leaves are typically 7-15 cm long and 4-8 cm wide. During the spring, these plants produce small, fragrant flowers that are white or yellowish in color. The flowers are arranged in clusters and have a tubular shape with four lobes. The fruit of Fortunearia is a dry, winged samara that is typically 2-3 cm long.
Care Guide
Fortunearia plants prefer well-drained soil and should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. They can be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. These plants prefer partial shade to full sun and can tolerate a range of hardiness zones, from 7-10. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fortunearia plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to scales, aphids, and spider mites. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Fortunearia plants can also develop leaf spot or powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Fortunearia plants are native to China and Vietnam, where they can be found in forests and along streams. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Fortunearia plants?
A: Fortunearia plants can tolerate hardiness zones 7-10.
Q: How tall can Fortunearia plants grow?
A: Fortunearia plants can grow up to 10 meters in height.
Q: Are Fortunearia plants resistant to pests and diseases?
A: Fortunearia plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can be susceptible to scales, aphids, and spider mites.
Q: When should pruning be done for Fortunearia plants?
A: Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.
Related Plants
- Olea europaea
- Jasminum
- Syringa vulgaris
References
- “Fortunearia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=v590.
- “Fortunearia.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed September 10, 2021. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:77189824-1.
