Contents
Description
Loxostylis is a plant species that belongs to the family Anacardiaceae. It is also known as the “spiny corkwood” due to its spiny branches and corky bark. This species is native to South Africa and is often used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive appearance. The plant can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a distinctive crown of leaves that are dark green and glossy. The flowers of Loxostylis are small and white, and they bloom in spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Loxostylis |
Appearance
Loxostylis is a large tree with a dense, rounded crown of dark green leaves. Its leaves are leathery, glossy, and have a pointed tip. The plant has spiny branches and corky bark that is a light greyish-brown color. The flowers of Loxostylis are small and white, and they bloom in spring and summer. The fruit of this species is a small, round, red drupe that contains a single seed.
Care Guide
Water: Loxostylis prefers well-draining soil and requires moderate watering. It should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season and less frequently during the dormant season.
Fertilization: Fertilize Loxostylis once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The soil should be amended with organic matter to improve drainage and nutrient availability.
Sunlight: Loxostylis prefers full sun to partial shade. It should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Loxostylis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Loxostylis is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot if the soil is poorly draining. It may also be attacked by spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help to prevent infestations.
Habitat
Loxostylis is native to South Africa and is typically found in coastal forests and on rocky hillsides. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions once established.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Loxostylis tolerate cold temperatures?
A: No, Loxostylis is not cold hardy and should not be exposed to temperatures below 25°F.
Q: How often should Loxostylis be pruned?
A: Loxostylis should be pruned once a year in the late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased branches and to shape the tree.
Q: Is Loxostylis deer-resistant?
A: No, Loxostylis is not deer-resistant and may be damaged by deer browsing.
Q: Can Loxostylis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Loxostylis can be grown in containers, but it may require frequent watering and fertilization.
Related Plants
- Anacardium occidentale
- Sclerocarya birrea
- Mangifera indica
- Psidium guajava
- Terminalia catappa
References
- “Loxostylis alata.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2010, http://pza.sanbi.org/loxostylis-alata.
- “Loxostylis alata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d184.
- “Loxostylis alata – Spiny Corkwood.” Plantbook, 2019, https://plantbook.co/loxostylis-alata-spiny-corkwood/.
