Icacinales

Description

Icacinales is an order of flowering plants that belongs to the subclass Rosidae. The order consists of only one family, Icacinaceae, which comprises about 400 species of trees, shrubs, and lianas. The plants are distributed throughout the tropics and subtropics, with the majority of the species found in Africa and South America. The family is characterized by its simple, alternate leaves, and small, usually unisexual flowers that are borne in axillary or terminal inflorescences.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The plants in the Icacinaceae family have simple, alternate leaves that are usually entire, but can be toothed or lobed in some species. The leaves are often leathery or thick, and can be glossy or dull. The flowers are small and usually unisexual, with male and female flowers often found on separate plants. The fruit is a drupe or a berry, and can be edible or poisonous depending on the species. The plants can range in size from small shrubs to large trees, with some species reaching heights of up to 30 meters.

Care Guide

Icacinales plants are generally easy to care for, but some species may require specific conditions. Here are some general guidelines:

• Water: Water the plants regularly, but do not overwater as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plants during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Soil: Icacinales plants prefer well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix that is specifically formulated for tropical plants.
• Sunlight: Most species prefer bright, indirect light, although some can tolerate partial shade. Avoid exposing the plants to direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day.
• Hardiness Zones: Icacinales plants are tropical and do not tolerate frost. Most species are suitable for USDA hardiness zones 10-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Icacinales plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can still be affected by some common problems:

• Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
• Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
• Root rot: This fungal disease can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Treat the plant with a fungicide and adjust the watering schedule.

Habitat

Icacinales plants are found in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, savannas, and woodlands. Some species are adapted to specific conditions, such as wetlands or rocky outcrops. The plants are distributed throughout the tropics and subtropics, with the majority of the species found in Africa and South America.

Question and Answer

Q: Are Icacinales plants suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: Yes, many Icacinales species are suitable for indoor cultivation, provided they are given the proper conditions.

Q: Are Icacinales plants poisonous?
A: Some species of Icacinales plants are poisonous, while others are edible or have medicinal properties. It is important to research the specific species before consuming any part of the plant.

Q: Can I propagate Icacinales plants from cuttings?
A: Yes, Icacinales plants can be propagated from stem cuttings taken during the growing season. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix.

Q: Do Icacinales plants require pruning?
A: Some species of Icacinales plants may benefit from pruning to control their shape and size. Prune during the growing season, and avoid cutting back too much of the plant at once.

Related Plants

• Apodytes
• Emmotum
• Helicostylis
• Microcos
• Phytolacca
• Sarcostigma
• Sarcostoma
• Schizolaena
• Stemonurus
• Vaccinium

References

• Stevens, P. F. (2001 onwards). Angiosperm Phylogeny Website. Version 14, July 2017. http://www.mobot.org/MOBOT/research/APweb/
• Smith, N., Mori, S. A., Henderson, A., Stevenson, D. W., & Heald, S. V. (2017). Flowering Plants of the Neotropics. Princeton University Press.
• van Wyk, B. E., & van Wyk, P. (2013). Field Guide to Trees of Southern Africa. Struik Nature.