Contents
Description
Mallotus Philippensis, also known as kamala tree, is a small evergreen tree that is native to Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family and is known for its medicinal properties. The tree produces small flowers that turn into bright red fruits, which contain a valuable dye used in traditional medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Mallotus |
Appearance
The kamala tree grows up to 10 meters tall and has a spreading crown. The bark of the tree is brown and rough, while the leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptical. The leaves are 10-20 cm long and 5-10 cm wide, with a serrated margin. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers that turn into bright red fruits that are 1-2 cm in diameter. The fruits contain a valuable dye that is used in traditional medicine.
Care Guide
Water: Kamala trees prefer moist soil, so they should be watered regularly. However, they do not tolerate waterlogging, so make sure the soil is well-draining.Fertilization: Kamala trees do not require frequent fertilization. However, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to promote growth.Soil: Kamala trees prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy.Sunlight: Kamala trees prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce flowering and fruiting.Hardiness Zones: Kamala trees are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kamala trees are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be affected by mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. In addition, kamala trees can be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the tree and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Kamala trees are native to Southeast Asia and can be found in a variety of habitats, from lowland rainforests to montane forests. They prefer moist, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the medicinal use of kamala tree?
A: The tree produces a valuable dye that is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including diarrhea, dysentery, and skin diseases.Q: What is the hardiness zone for kamala tree?
A: Kamala trees are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect kamala tree?
A: Kamala trees can be affected by mealybugs, scale insects, spider mites, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.Q: What is the appearance of kamala tree?
A: Kamala tree is a small evergreen tree that grows up to 10 meters tall. It has simple, alternate, and elliptical leaves and produces small, inconspicuous flowers that turn into bright red fruits.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to kamala tree:
- Mallotus japonicus
- Mallotus repandus
- Mallotus villosus
- Mallotus tetracoccus
References
Here are some references used in creating this encyclopedia entry:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6123436/
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/305089015_Kamala_Mallotus_philippensis_Mueller_Argoviensis
- https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Mallotus+philippensis
