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Description
Geijera Parviflora, commonly known as Wilga or Australian Willow, is a small to medium-sized tree that is native to Australia. It belongs to the Rutaceae family and is often used in landscaping due to its ornamental qualities. The tree produces delicate white flowers that bloom in spring, and its fruit is a small woody capsule that contains several seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Geijera |
Appearance
Geijera Parviflora has a rounded crown that can grow up to 10 meters tall and 6 meters wide. The tree has gray-brown bark that is smooth when young, but becomes rough with age. Its leaves are small, narrow, and lance-shaped, measuring up to 5 cm long and 1 cm wide. They are glossy green and have a distinct citrus aroma when crushed. The tree produces small white flowers that bloom in spring, which are followed by small woody capsules containing several seeds.
Care Guide
Geijera Parviflora is a relatively low-maintenance tree. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:- Water: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is kept consistently moist. Water regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering in winter.- Fertilization: Feed the tree with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer to promote healthy growth.- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.- Sunlight: Geijera Parviflora prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but may produce fewer flowers.- Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Geijera Parviflora is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly-draining soil. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:- Sooty mold: This fungus can grow on the tree’s leaves and stems, causing a black, sooty appearance. It is often a result of insect infestations.- Scale insects: These small, oval insects can attach to the tree’s leaves and stems, sucking sap and causing yellowing or wilting.- Root rot: This fungal disease can occur in poorly-draining soil, causing the tree’s roots to rot and the tree to wilt.
Habitat
Geijera Parviflora is native to Australia, where it can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, and along watercourses. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Geijera Parviflora a fast-growing tree?
A: Geijera Parviflora is a relatively slow-growing tree, with an average growth rate of around 30 cm per year.
Q: Can Geijera Parviflora grow in containers?
A: Yes, Geijera Parviflora can be grown in containers, although it may grow slower than when planted in the ground.
Q: How often should I prune my Geijera Parviflora tree?
A: Prune your Geijera Parviflora tree in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as to shape the tree if necessary.
Q: Can Geijera Parviflora tolerate frost?
A: Geijera Parviflora is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Geijera Parviflora:- Citrus spp.- Boronia spp.- Melaleuca spp.- Acacia spp.- Eucalyptus spp.
References
– “Geijera parviflora.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). – “Geijera parviflora.” The University of Arizona Campus Arboretum. – “Geijera parviflora.” PlantNet. Note: These references are for further reading only and are not active links.
