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Description
Lonchocarpus Lanceolatus, also known as the lance pod, is a tropical tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Central and South America and can grow up to 30 meters tall. The tree produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that bloom from October to December, followed by long, flat, and narrow pods that contain seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lonchocarpus |
Appearance
The lance pod has a slender trunk and a dense, spreading crown. The bark is grayish-brown and rough, and the leaves are pinnate and alternate, with 5-9 leaflets. The lance pod also produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that bloom from October to December, followed by long, flat, and narrow pods that can grow up to 60 cm in length.
Care Guide
The lance pod is a low-maintenance tree that can adapt to various growing conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the tree regularly, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year with a balanced fertilizer, preferably in the spring.
- Soil: The lance pod prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
- Sunlight: The lance pod prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may affect its growth and flowering.
- Hardiness Zones: The lance pod is hardy in USDA zones 9b-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The lance pod is generally not prone to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can lead to the death of the tree.
- Leaf spot: Fungal diseases such as leaf spot can affect the lance pod, causing yellowing and browning of the leaves.
- Aphids: Aphids can infest the tree, sucking its sap and causing the leaves to curl and deform.
Habitat
The lance pod is native to Central and South America, where it grows in tropical and subtropical forests. It can also be found in other tropical regions, such as the Caribbean, Africa, and Asia. The tree prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and humidity levels.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the lance pod a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, the lance pod is a fast-growing tree that can reach up to 30 meters tall.
Q: Can the lance pod be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the lance pod can be grown in containers, but it may require frequent repotting as it grows.
Q: Can the lance pod be used for timber?
A: Yes, the lance pod wood is durable and can be used for furniture, flooring, and other construction purposes.
Q: Is the lance pod poisonous?
A: Yes, the lance pod seeds and pods contain toxic compounds that can cause nausea, vomiting, and other symptoms if ingested.
Related Plants
- Lonchocarpus eriocalyx
- Lonchocarpus latifolius
- Lonchocarpus guatemalensis
- Lonchocarpus urucu
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/global/iitf/pdf/shrubs/Lonchocarpus%20lanceolatus.pdf
- https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/32090
- https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/197913/
