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Description
Heteropanax Fragrans, also known as Fragrant Aralia or Sweet Chusan, is a species of flowering plant in the family Araliaceae native to China and Taiwan. It is a small to medium-sized tree that can reach up to 10 meters in height, with a straight trunk and a dense crown of glossy evergreen leaves. It produces small white flowers in the summer, followed by small black berries that are not edible.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Heteropanax |
| Species | Heteropanax Fragrans |
Appearance
The leaves of Heteropanax Fragrans are large, compound, and deeply lobed, with a glossy dark green color that can turn bronze in colder weather. The tree has a straight, grey-brown bark that can peel off in thin strips. Its flowers are small and white, clustered in umbels at the end of the branches, while its fruits are small black berries that grow in clusters and are not edible.
Care Guide
Heteropanax Fragrans is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in most conditions. Here are some tips for taking care of it:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Heteropanax Fragrans prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clayey.
- Sunlight: Place your plant in a bright spot with indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Heteropanax Fragrans can grow in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Heteropanax Fragrans is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can still be affected by some common problems:
- Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use a neem oil spray to control them.
- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellow spots on the leaves and sticky honeydew on the branches. Use a horticultural oil spray to control them.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot and the plant to wilt. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent this.
Habitat
Heteropanax Fragrans is native to China and Taiwan, where it grows in forests, woodlands, and rocky slopes. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate both sun and shade. It is also grown as an ornamental plant in parks and gardens around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Heteropanax Fragrans toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant can be toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms.
Q: How often should I prune my Heteropanax Fragrans?
A: Prune your plant in the spring or fall, removing any dead or diseased branches. You can also shape it by cutting back the tips of the branches.
Q: Can I propagate Heteropanax Fragrans from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate the plant from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in moist soil.
Q: How tall can Heteropanax Fragrans grow?
A: The plant can reach up to 10 meters in height, but it usually stays smaller when grown in containers.
Related Plants
- Heteropanax davidii
- Heteropanax fragrans ‘Variegatus’
- Heteropanax chinensis
References
- “Heteropanax fragrans.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 21 June 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c305>.
- “Heteropanax fragrans.” Plant Care Guide. Accessed 21 June 2021. <https://plantcareguide.com/heteropanax-fragrans/>.
- “Heteropanax fragrans.” The Spruce. Accessed 21 June 2021. <https://www.thespruce.com/heteropanax-fragrans-growing-profile-5076093>.
