Harpullia
Contents
1. Description
Harpullia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Sapindaceae that are native to Southeast Asia and Australia. There are about 25 species in this genus, most of which are trees with pinnate leaves and clusters of small flowers that develop into fruits with a fleshy outer layer and a hard seed inside.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Harpullia |
3. Appearance
Most species of Harpullia are trees that can grow up to 30 meters tall. They have pinnate leaves with 5-11 leaflets that are glossy green and arranged in a spiral pattern. The flowers are small and white or yellowish-green, and they are borne in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a drupe that is about 2-3 cm in diameter, and it has a fleshy outer layer that is green or yellow when ripe. The hard seed inside is brown and shiny.
4. Care Guide
Water: Harpullia plants prefer moist soil, so water them regularly, especially during dry periods. However, make sure the soil is well-drained to avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
Fertilization: Feed Harpullia plants with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil: Harpullia plants grow best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels but prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Sunlight: Harpullia plants prefer full sun to partial shade. However, young plants should be protected from direct sunlight until they are established.
Hardiness Zones: Harpullia plants are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
Harpullia plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is waterlogged. In addition, they can be attacked by scale insects and mealybugs, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
6. Habitat
Harpullia plants are native to Southeast Asia and Australia, where they grow in tropical and subtropical rainforests. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels. Some species of Harpullia are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as fever, headache, and toothache.
7. Question and Answer
Q: Can Harpullia plants grow in containers?
A: Yes, Harpullia plants can be grown in containers, but make sure the pot is large enough to accommodate the roots and that the soil is well-drained.
Q: Do Harpullia plants need pruning?
A: Harpullia plants do not require regular pruning, but you can prune them to remove dead or damaged branches or to control their size and shape.
Q: Can Harpullia plants be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Harpullia plants can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early fall. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil.
Q: Are Harpullia plants toxic to pets?
A: There is no information available on whether Harpullia plants are toxic to pets. However, it is always a good idea to keep pets away from plants that are not known to be safe.
8. Related Plants
- Sapindus
- Litchi
- Rambutan
- Longan
- Lychee
9. References
- “Harpullia.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
- “Harpullia.” Flora of China, Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Harpullia.” Plants of the World Online, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
