Contents
Description
Machilus Thunbergii, also known as Japanese Evergreen Oak, is an evergreen tree that belongs to the Lauraceae family. It is native to Japan and can grow up to 25 meters tall. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a leathery texture. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring, followed by small fruits that are blue-black in color. The bark of the tree is smooth and grayish-brown.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Laurales |
| Family | Lauraceae |
| Genus | Machilus |
Appearance
The Machilus Thunbergii tree has a beautiful and elegant appearance. Its leaves are dark green and glossy, with a leathery texture that makes them resistant to pests and diseases. The tree’s bark is smooth and grayish-brown, giving it a sleek and modern look. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring, followed by small fruits that are blue-black in color. The tree’s overall appearance is symmetrical and well-balanced, making it an excellent choice for landscaping.
Care Guide
Machilus Thunbergii is a low-maintenance tree that requires little care. Here are some general guidelines for caring for this tree:- Water: Water the tree deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather.- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The tree prefers partial shade to full sun.- Hardiness Zones: Machilus Thunbergii is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Machilus Thunbergii is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:- Aphids: These pests can cause damage to the tree’s leaves by sucking out the sap. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the tree’s leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.- Leaf spot: This disease can cause brown spots on the tree’s leaves. It can be controlled with fungicides.
Habitat
Machilus Thunbergii is native to Japan and is commonly found in the mountains and forests of the country. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and partial shade to full sun. The tree is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Machilus Thunbergii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, but it may not grow as large as it would in the ground.
Q: Does Machilus Thunbergii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the tree’s fruits can attract birds and other wildlife.
Q: How often should Machilus Thunbergii be pruned?
A: The tree does not require frequent pruning, but it can be pruned in the late winter or early spring to maintain its shape.
Q: Is Machilus Thunbergii toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that Machilus Thunbergii is toxic to pets, but it is always a good idea to keep pets away from plants.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Machilus Thunbergii:- Machilus Thunbergii ‘Green Spire’- Machilus Thunbergii ‘Miyama-Shishi-Gashira’- Machilus Thunbergii ‘Nana’
References
– “Machilus thunbergii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a540.- “Machilus thunbergii.” Fine Gardening, www.finegardening.com/plant/machilus-thunbergii.
