Contents
Description
Gynocardia is a plant genus that belongs to the family of Achariaceae, native to South Asia. It is also known as Chaulmoogra or Hydnocarpus. The plant species are large, evergreen trees that can grow up to 20-30 meters in height. It is widely used in traditional medicine to treat various skin conditions, leprosy, and tuberculosis.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Achariaceae |
| Genus | Gynocardia |
Appearance
Gynocardia trees have large, glossy, and dark green leaves that are arranged in an alternate pattern. The bark of the tree is rough and grayish-brown in color. The flowers of the tree are small and greenish-yellow in color. The fruit of the tree is a large, woody capsule that contains several seeds. The seeds of the tree are the primary source of Chaulmoogra oil, which is used in traditional medicine.
Care Guide
Gynocardia trees require moderate watering and fertilization. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. The tree requires full sun exposure to thrive, and it can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-7°C). Gynocardia trees are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gynocardia trees are susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including leaf spot, powdery mildew, and spider mites. To prevent these problems, it is important to keep the tree well-ventilated and to avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Gynocardia trees are native to South Asia and can be found in countries such as India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. They grow in a variety of habitats, from tropical forests to coastal regions.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Gynocardia?
A: The seeds of Gynocardia trees are used to produce Chaulmoogra oil, which is used in traditional medicine to treat skin conditions, leprosy, and tuberculosis.
Q: How tall can a Gynocardia tree grow?
A: Gynocardia trees can grow up to 20-30 meters in height.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Gynocardia trees?
A: Gynocardia trees are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: Where are Gynocardia trees native to?
A: Gynocardia trees are native to South Asia.
Related Plants
- Acharia
- Hydnocarpus
- Caryodendron
- Carapa
References
- “Gynocardia.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
- “Gynocardia.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science.
- Shanmugam, S., et al. “Chaulmoogra Oil and Its Derivatives: A Review.” Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research, vol. 3, no. 1, 2011, pp. 787-793.
