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Description
Guaiacum Coulteri, also known as Coulter’s Guaiacum, is a rare and slow-growing evergreen tree that belongs to the Zygophyllaceae family. It is native to Baja California, Mexico, and can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide. The tree produces beautiful, fragrant, blue-purple flowers in the spring and summer, followed by small, round fruits that contain a hard, dark-brown seed. This tree is highly valued for its ornamental and medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Zygophyllaceae |
| Genus | Guaiacum |
Appearance
The Guaiacum Coulteri tree has a dense, rounded crown with thick, leathery, and glossy leaves that are 1-2 inches long. The leaves are a dark-green color and have a waxy texture. The tree’s bark is gray-brown and rough, with deep cracks and fissures. The tree’s flowers are 1-2 inches wide and have five petals that are a beautiful blue-purple color. The fruits are small, round, and brown. The tree’s wood is extremely hard and dense, with a dark-brown color.
Care Guide
Guaiacum Coulteri is a slow-growing tree that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant the tree in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Guaiacum Coulteri is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Guaiacum Coulteri is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. Use a miticide to control them.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause brown, circular spots on leaves. Remove infected leaves and apply a fungicide.
- Scale Insects: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. Use an insecticide or a solution of soap and water to control them.
Habitat
Guaiacum Coulteri is native to the arid regions of Baja California, Mexico. It grows in rocky and sandy soils, in full sun or partial shade. The tree is highly drought-tolerant and can survive in extremely hot and dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Guaiacum Coulteri a good choice for a small garden?
A: No, Guaiacum Coulteri is not a good choice for a small garden as it can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide.
Q: Can Guaiacum Coulteri be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Guaiacum Coulteri can be grown in a container, but it will require frequent pruning to control its size.
Q: Is Guaiacum Coulteri poisonous to pets?
A: Yes, all parts of Guaiacum Coulteri, including the seeds, are toxic to pets if ingested.
Q: Can Guaiacum Coulteri be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Guaiacum Coulteri has been traditionally used for treating rheumatism, arthritis, and other inflammatory conditions.
Related Plants
- Guaiacum Officinale
- Guaiacum Sanctum
- Guaiacum Angustifolium
- Guaiacum Unijugum
References
- “Guaiacum Coulteri.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 25 June 2021.
- “Guaiacum Coulteri.” The Gymnosperm Database. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 June 2021.
- “Guaiacum Coulteri.” San Marcos Growers. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 June 2021.
