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Description
Licania Canescens, also known as Gopherwood, is a tropical evergreen tree that is native to South America. It belongs to the Chrysobalanaceae family and can grow up to 30 meters tall. The tree features a straight trunk with a dense, rounded crown. Its bark is gray and smooth, with horizontal lenticels that allow for gas exchange.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus ||——–|———|——–|——-|——-|——–|——-|| Eukarya | Plantae | Magnoliophyta | Magnoliopsida | Rosales | Chrysobalanaceae | Licania |
Appearance
The leaves of Licania Canescens are simple, alternate, and oblong in shape. They are 12 to 20 centimeters long and 4 to 6 centimeters wide. The upper surface of the leaf is dark green and glossy, while the underside is pale green and hairy. The tree produces small, white flowers that are 3 to 4 millimeters in diameter. These flowers are followed by small, round fruits that are about 1 centimeter in diameter and contain a single seed.
Care Guide
Licania Canescens thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The tree requires regular watering but can tolerate short periods of drought. Fertilize the tree once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Licania Canescens is hardy in USDA Zones 10 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The most common pests that affect Licania Canescens are spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The tree is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Licania Canescens is native to South America and can be found in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. The tree grows in tropical rainforests and can also be found in disturbed areas such as pastures and along the edges of forests.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the growth rate of Licania Canescens?
A: The tree has a moderate growth rate and can grow up to 3 feet per year under optimal conditions.
Q: How often should I water my Licania Canescens?
A: Water the tree regularly, but let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Can Licania Canescens be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in a container but will need to be repotted every few years.
Q: Does Licania Canescens produce fruit?
A: Yes, the tree produces small, round fruits that are about 1 centimeter in diameter and contain a single seed.
Related Plants
– Licania Alba- Licania Arborea- Licania Fasciculata- Licania Grandibracteata- Licania Hirsuta
References
– “Licania Canescens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287259.- “Licania Canescens.” PlantZAfrica, http://pza.sanbi.org/licania-canescens.
