Contents
Description
Helicteres Isora is a small tree that belongs to the family Sterculiaceae. It is commonly known as “East Indian Screw Tree” or “Maror Phali” in Hindi. The plant is native to India and is found in other parts of Asia, including Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. Its fruit is used in traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Sterculiaceae |
| Genus | Helicteres |
Appearance
Helicteres Isora is a small, deciduous tree that can grow up to 8 meters tall. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate, with a length of 8-15 cm and a width of 5-9 cm. The flowers are bisexual, yellow, and have a diameter of 2-3 cm. The fruit is a woody capsule, which is twisted like a screw, hence the common name “Screw Tree”. The fruit is brown when mature and has a length of 2-4 cm.
Care Guide
Water: Helicteres Isora prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. It is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Helicteres Isora grows well in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5.Sunlight: The plant requires full sun exposure for its healthy growth.Hardiness Zones: Helicteres Isora can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Helicteres Isora is susceptible to pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled by spraying neem oil or insecticidal soap on the plant. The plant is also prone to diseases like leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Helicteres Isora is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including India, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure for its growth.
Question and Answer
Q. Can Helicteres Isora grow in cold climates?
A. No, Helicteres Isora cannot grow in cold climates as it requires a warm and humid environment.Q. Is Helicteres Isora used in traditional medicine?
A. Yes, the fruit of Helicteres Isora is used in traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties.Q. How often should Helicteres Isora be fertilized?
A. Helicteres Isora should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q. What pests are common in Helicteres Isora?
A. Helicteres Isora is commonly affected by aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Helicteres Isora:
- Helicteres angustifolia
- Helicteres hirsuta
- Helicteres guazumifolia
- Helicteres baruensis
References
- “Helicteres isora L.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 29 July 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:558360-1
- Alam, M. and Khan, M. “Phytochemical and Pharmacological Properties of Helicteres isora Linn.: An Overview.” International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, vol. 4, no. 4, 2013, pp. 1206-1217.
- “Helicteres isora.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 29 July 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d425
