Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fagales |
| Family: | Fagaceae |
| Genus: | Lithocarpus |
Appearance
Lithocarpus Henryi, also known as Henry’s oak or tanoak, is a majestic tree species native to China. It can grow up to 40 meters tall with a trunk diameter of up to 1.5 meters. Its bark is grayish-brown and fissured with age. The leaves are evergreen, alternate, and elliptic with a glossy dark green upper surface and a lighter green lower surface. The tree produces male and female flowers on separate catkins, and the fruit is a large acorn, which is enclosed in a thick, woody cupule that is covered in small, sharp spines.
Care Guide
Lithocarpus Henryi is a relatively low-maintenance tree species. Here are some tips on how to care for it:
- Water: Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
- Fertilization: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and fall.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining, acidic soil.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Lithocarpus Henryi is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lithocarpus Henryi is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to oak root fungus, which can cause root rot and eventually lead to the death of the tree. To prevent oak root fungus, ensure that the tree is planted in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. The tree can also be affected by oak leaf blister, which causes small, raised blisters on the leaves but does not usually cause serious damage to the tree. To control oak leaf blister, prune infected leaves and branches and dispose of them properly.
Habitat
Lithocarpus Henryi is native to China, where it is commonly found in mountainous regions at elevations of 500-2500 meters. It prefers well-draining, acidic soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lithocarpus Henryi a fast-growing tree?
A: No, Lithocarpus Henryi is a relatively slow-growing tree species.
Q: Can Lithocarpus Henryi be grown in containers?
A: No, Lithocarpus Henryi is not suitable for container gardening as it can grow up to 40 meters tall.
Q: Is Lithocarpus Henryi an evergreen or deciduous tree?
A: Lithocarpus Henryi is an evergreen tree species.
Q: What is the lifespan of Lithocarpus Henryi?
A: Lithocarpus Henryi can live for up to 200 years.
Related Plants
- Lithocarpus chinensis
- Lithocarpus cleistocarpus
- Lithocarpus glaber
- Lithocarpus polystachyus
- Lithocarpus xylocarpus
References
- Flora of China. (2014). Lithocarpus Henryi. In Flora of China. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200006563
- Horticultural Society of New York. (n.d.). Lithocarpus Henryi. In Plant List. Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl/record/kew-115050
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Lithocarpus Henryi. In Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j200
