Markhamia

Description

Markhamia is a tropical tree that belongs to the Bignoniaceae family. This tree is commonly known as the “sausage tree” due to its elongated fruits that resemble sausages. It is native to Africa and Asia, and it is widely grown as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers. Besides its aesthetical value, Markhamia is also valued for its medicinal properties. For instance, its bark is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including malaria and fever.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Markhamia is a tall tree that can grow up to 20 meters in height. Its leaves are large and arranged alternately on the stem. The leaves are dark green in color and have a leathery texture. The tree produces beautiful flowers that are trumpet-shaped and range in color from white to pink or purple. The flowers are clustered in inflorescences that can be up to 50 cm long. The fruits of the tree are elongated and resemble sausages. They can grow up to 60 cm in length and contain numerous seeds.

Care Guide

To grow Markhamia successfully, you need to provide it with the right care. Here are some care tips to help you:

Water

Markhamia prefers moist soil, so you need to water it regularly. However, make sure not to overwater the plant, as this can cause root rot.

Fertilization

Markhamia benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Soil

Markhamia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Make sure to plant it in a location with good soil drainage.

Sunlight

Markhamia thrives in full sunlight, so make sure to plant it in a location that receives plenty of sunlight.

Hardiness Zones

Markhamia is hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Markhamia is relatively pest-free, but it can be affected by various diseases, including leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. To prevent these diseases, make sure to provide the plant with the right care, including proper watering, fertilization, and soil drainage.

Habitat

Markhamia is native to Africa and Asia, where it grows in tropical and subtropical regions. The tree thrives in well-draining soil and prefers full sunlight.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Markhamia a fast-growing tree?

A: Yes, Markhamia is a fast-growing tree that can grow up to 2 meters per year under the right conditions.

Q: Can Markhamia be grown in a container?

A: Yes, Markhamia can be grown in a container, but it may not grow as large as when planted in the ground.

Q: Is Markhamia a deciduous tree?

A: Yes, Markhamia is a deciduous tree that sheds its leaves in the dry season.

Q: Can Markhamia be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes, Markhamia can be propagated from cuttings taken from mature plants.

Related Plants

Here are some plants related to Markhamia:

• Catalpa
• Jacaranda
• Bauhinia
• Tecoma

References

• “Markhamia.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute.
• “Markhamia.” Trees and Shrubs Online, Royal Horticultural Society.
• “Markhamia.” Flora of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe National Herbarium.