Markhamia Zanzibarica

Description

Markhamia Zanzibarica, also known as the Bell Bean Tree or the Markhamia Tree, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Bignoniaceae family. This beautiful plant is native to East Africa, specifically Tanzania and Zanzibar, and is widely cultivated in gardens and parks for its striking appearance and unique characteristics.The Markhamia Zanzibarica plant can grow up to 15 meters in height and has a narrow, cylindrical trunk that is usually covered in a smooth, grayish-brown bark. The leaves of this plant are simple, large, and oval-shaped, measuring up to 30 centimeters in length and 20 centimeters in width. The flowers of the Markhamia Zanzibarica are large and trumpet-shaped, with a pale yellow or cream color that fades to a light pink shade as the flower matures.

Taxonomic Information

| Domain| Eukarya||————|—————|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Magnoliophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Lamiales|| Family| Bignoniaceae|| Genus| Markhamia|| Species| Zanzibarica|

Appearance

The Markhamia Zanzibarica is a beautiful and unique plant with several distinctive features. Its leaves are large and oval-shaped, with a glossy, dark green color that contrasts nicely with the pale yellow or cream-colored flowers. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and can measure up to 10 centimeters in length, with five petals that curl back as the flower matures.The fruit of the Markhamia Zanzibarica is a long, slender pod that can measure up to 30 centimeters in length. The pods are initially green but turn brown and harden as they mature. Inside each pod are up to 200 seeds that are enclosed in a papery membrane.

Care Guide

Proper care of the Markhamia Zanzibarica is essential for its optimal growth and health. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: The Markhamia Zanzibarica requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Use a slow-release fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and apply it every three months during the growing season.- Soil: The Markhamia Zanzibarica prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The Markhamia Zanzibarica can grow in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Markhamia Zanzibarica is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:- Mealybugs: These small, white insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots to appear on the leaves and can lead to defoliation if left untreated.- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can cause root rot, which can lead to the death of the plant.

Habitat

The Markhamia Zanzibarica is native to East Africa, specifically Tanzania and Zanzibar. It is typically found in coastal forests, lowland areas, and along riverbanks. This plant prefers warm and humid environments and can tolerate a wide range of soil types.

Question and Answer

Q: Is the Markhamia Zanzibarica a fast-growing plant?A: Yes, the Markhamia Zanzibarica can grow up to 1-2 meters per year under optimal growing conditions.Q: Does the Markhamia Zanzibarica require pruning?A: Yes, pruning can help to control the size and shape of the plant and promote healthy growth.Q: Can the Markhamia Zanzibarica be grown in containers?A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients.Q: Is the Markhamia Zanzibarica toxic to pets?A: There is no evidence to suggest that the Markhamia Zanzibarica is toxic to pets.

Related Plants

– Markhamia Lutea- Markhamia Obtusifolia- Markhamia Hildebrandtii- Markhamia Platycalyx

References

– “Markhamia zanzibarica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c392.- “Markhamia Zanzibarica.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/markhamiazan.htm.- “Bell Bean Tree.” Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/61624/.