Lithraea

Description

Lithraea is a genus of flowering plants in the family Anacardiaceae. It is native to South America, with most species found in Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay. The plants have a long history of traditional use in medicine and as a source of tannins, resins, and oils.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Lithraea plants are small to medium-sized trees or shrubs. They typically grow up to 10 meters in height, but some species can reach up to 25 meters. The leaves are pinnate and can be up to 30 centimeters long. They are usually green or yellow-green in color, but some species have reddish or purple tints. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and the fruit is a small drupe that turns black when ripe.

Care Guide

Lithraea plants are relatively easy to care for. They prefer well-draining soil and moderate watering. The plants should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Lithraea plants are adaptable to a range of sunlight conditions and can grow in full sun or partial shade. They are hardy in USDA zones 8-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Lithraea plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to scale insects, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The plants can also be affected by root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.

Habitat

Lithraea plants are native to South America, where they can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, scrublands, and grasslands. They are particularly common in the foothills of the Andes Mountains.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Lithraea plants be grown indoors?

A: While Lithraea plants can be grown indoors, they prefer to be planted outside in well-draining soil and moderate sunlight.

Q: Are Lithraea plants poisonous?

A: There is no evidence to suggest that Lithraea plants are toxic to humans or animals.

Q: How often should Lithraea plants be watered?

A: Lithraea plants should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch. They prefer moderate watering and should not be overwatered.

Q: Can Lithraea plants be used for medicinal purposes?

A: Lithraea plants have a long history of traditional use in medicine as a treatment for a variety of ailments, including inflammation, pain, and respiratory issues.

Related Plants

• Anacardium
• Pistacia
• Rhus

References

• “Lithraea.” The Plant List. Accessed 27 April 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/browse/A/Anacardiaceae/Lithraea/
• “Lithraea.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 27 April 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LITHR
• Leiva-Brondo, Miguel, and Emilio L. Pire. “Lithraea molleoides (Vell.) Engl.” Medicinal Plants of the World, vol. 3, Springer, 2019, pp. 223-225.