Contents
1. Description
Lithocarpus Hancei is an evergreen tree that belongs to the Fagaceae family. This beautiful tree is native to China, specifically in the provinces of Guangdong, Guangxi, and Yunnan. It is also found in Vietnam.
The tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a spread of up to 20 meters. The trunk is straight and has a grayish-brown bark. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and have a leathery texture. It produces acorns that are enclosed in a cup-like structure called cupules. The cupules are covered in long, soft hairs that turn reddish-brown as they mature.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Lithocarpus |
| Species | Hancei |
3. Appearance
Lithocarpus Hancei is a stunning evergreen tree that has glossy, leathery leaves that are dark green in color. The leaves are elliptical and measure about 10-20 centimeters long and 4-9 centimeters wide. The tree produces acorns that are enclosed in a cupule. The cupules are covered in long, soft hairs that turn reddish-brown as they mature.
The tree has a straight trunk that can grow up to 30 meters tall and a spread of up to 20 meters. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown and has a rough texture.
4. Care Guide
Lithocarpus Hancei can be grown in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The tree should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. It is important not to overwater the tree as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilizer should be applied in the spring and fall. Use a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen. The tree can be pruned in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches.
Lithocarpus Hancei is hardy to USDA zones 7-10. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -12°C.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
Lithocarpus Hancei is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to oak wilt, a fungal disease that affects oak trees. The disease is spread by insects that feed on the tree’s sap. Symptoms of oak wilt include wilting leaves, leaf discoloration, and leaf drop. The disease can be prevented by avoiding pruning during the growing season and by removing infected trees.
6. Habitat
Lithocarpus Hancei is native to China, specifically in the provinces of Guangdong, Guangxi, and Yunnan. It is also found in Vietnam. The tree grows in forests, on hillsides, and in valleys.
7. Question and Answer
Q: Can Lithocarpus Hancei be grown in containers?
A: No, Lithocarpus Hancei is not suitable for container growing as it requires a lot of space to grow.
Q: Is Lithocarpus Hancei drought-tolerant?
A: No, Lithocarpus Hancei requires regular watering, especially during dry spells.
Q: Does Lithocarpus Hancei produce flowers?
A: No, Lithocarpus Hancei does not produce flowers. It produces acorns that are enclosed in a cupule.
Q: Is Lithocarpus Hancei a fast-growing tree?
A: No, Lithocarpus Hancei is a slow-growing tree.
8. Related Plants
- Lithocarpus Cleistocarpus
- Lithocarpus Edulis
- Lithocarpus Glaber
- Lithocarpus Litseifolius
- Lithocarpus Pachyphyllus
9. References
- “Lithocarpus hancei.” Flora of China, www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200006700.
- “Lithocarpus hancei.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c301.
- “Lithocarpus hancei.” Plants of the World Online, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:358074-1.
