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Description
Hoheria Sexstylosa Var. Ovata, commonly known as the New Zealand Lacebark, is a beautiful tree native to New Zealand. It belongs to the family Malvaceae and is known for its stunning white flowers that bloom in summer. The tree can grow up to 10 meters tall and 5 meters wide, making it an excellent choice for landscaping and garden design. It has a slender trunk and a dense crown that makes it a great ornamental plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Hoheria |
Appearance
The Hoheria Sexstylosa Var. Ovata has dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and serrated. The leaves are about 5cm long and 4cm wide. The flowers are white, with five petals, and they bloom in summer. The tree has a slender trunk that is smooth and greyish-brown. The bark of the tree is thin and papery, and it peels off in long strips. The tree has a dense crown that is rounded and symmetrical. The tree is deciduous, and the leaves turn yellow before falling off in autumn.
Care Guide
Watering: The Hoheria Sexstylosa Var. Ovata requires moderate watering during the growing season. It is essential to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the winter season, reduce watering to prevent root rot.
Fertilization: The tree requires fertilization during the growing season. Use a well-balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize the tree every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil: The Hoheria Sexstylosa Var. Ovata prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels, but it grows best in slightly acidic soil.
Sunlight: The tree requires full sunlight to grow and bloom properly. It can tolerate partial shade, but it may affect its growth and flowering.
Hardiness Zones: The Hoheria Sexstylosa Var. Ovata grows best in hardiness zones 9-11. It can tolerate mild frost, but it may damage the tree if exposed to severe cold.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hoheria Sexstylosa Var. Ovata is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including aphids, scale insects, and powdery mildew. Aphids and scale insects can be controlled by using insecticidal soap. Powdery mildew can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Hoheria Sexstylosa Var. Ovata is native to New Zealand and can be found in forests, woodlands, and coastal areas. It grows best in well-drained soils and can tolerate salt spray and windy conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Hoheria Sexstylosa Var. Ovata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in containers if the container is large enough to accommodate its roots.
Q: How often should I prune the tree?
A: Prune the tree during the winter season to promote new growth in the spring.
Q: Can the tree be used for timber?
A: No, the Hoheria Sexstylosa Var. Ovata is not used for timber because of its small size.
Q: How fast does the tree grow?
A: The tree grows at a moderate rate of about 30cm per year.
Related Plants
- Hoheria Angustifolia
- Hoheria Lyalli
- Hoheria Populnea
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/lacebark-tree/lacebark-tree-care.htm
- https://www.trees.org.nz/Portals/0/docs/Factsheets/TSNZ%20Fact%20Sheet%20-%20Hoheria%20Sexstylosa.pdf
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/28239/Hoheria-sexstylosa-var-ovata/Details
