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Description
Gyrocarpus Americanus is a tree species native to Central and South America. It is commonly known as the American helicopter tree because of the way its fruits spin like helicopter blades as they fall to the ground. The tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and has a trunk diameter of up to 12 inches. Its leaves are compound, with 5-7 leaflets that are elliptical in shape and up to 4 inches long. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and the fruit is a woody capsule that contains a single seed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Gyrocarpaceae |
| Genus | Gyrocarpus |
Appearance
Gyrocarpus Americanus has a unique appearance that makes it easily recognizable. The tree has a tall, straight trunk with a gray-brown bark that is smooth when young but becomes rough and fissured as the tree ages. Its leaves are compound, with 5-7 leaflets that are dark green and glossy on top and pale green underneath. The leaflets are elliptical in shape and up to 4 inches long. The flowers of Gyrocarpus Americanus are small and inconspicuous, with a yellow-green color. The fruit is a woody capsule that is up to 2 inches long and contains a single seed. When the fruit falls to the ground, it spins like a helicopter blade, hence the common name of the American helicopter tree.
Care Guide
Gyrocarpus Americanus is a low maintenance tree that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of this tree:- Water: Gyrocarpus Americanus requires moderate watering. Water the tree deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.- Soil: Gyrocarpus Americanus prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Gyrocarpus Americanus is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gyrocarpus Americanus is not known to be susceptible to any major pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The tree can also be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the tree and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Gyrocarpus Americanus is native to Central and South America, where it grows in tropical rainforests and other moist habitats. The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils. It can tolerate full sun but prefers partial shade. Gyrocarpus Americanus is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Gyrocarpus Americanus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Gyrocarpus Americanus can be grown in containers, but it requires a large container and regular pruning to control its size.
Q: Is Gyrocarpus Americanus drought tolerant?
A: Gyrocarpus Americanus can tolerate mild drought, but it prefers moderate watering.
Q: Does Gyrocarpus Americanus have any medicinal uses?
A: Yes, the bark of Gyrocarpus Americanus has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including diarrhea and fever.
Q: Is Gyrocarpus Americanus an invasive species?
A: No, Gyrocarpus Americanus is not considered an invasive species.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Gyrocarpus Americanus:- Gyrocarpus Jacquinii- Gyrocarpus Asiaticus- Gyrocarpus Angustifolius- Gyrocarpus Borinquensis
References
– “Gyrocarpus Americanus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287135. Accessed 3 May 2021.- “Gyrocarpus Americanus.” Floridata, www.floridata.com/Plants/Gyrocarp/americanus/932. Accessed 3 May 2021.- “Gyrocarpus Americanus.” Plant Village, plantvillage.psu.edu/topics/gyrocarpus-americanus/infos. Accessed 3 May 2021.
