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Description
Melicope Simplex, also known as the Hairy Melicope, is a tropical tree that belongs to the Rutaceae family. It is native to Hawaii and can grow up to 30 feet tall. The leaves are glossy, green and oval-shaped and can grow up to 6 inches long. The bark is brown and can be smooth or slightly rough with small bumps. The tree produces small white flowers with a pleasant fragrance, followed by small green fruits that turn red when ripe. The Hairy Melicope is a great addition to any garden or landscape due to its striking appearance and ability to attract butterflies and bees.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Melicope |
Appearance
The Hairy Melicope has glossy, green, oval-shaped leaves that can grow up to 6 inches long. The bark is brown and can be smooth or slightly rough with small bumps. The tree produces small white flowers with a pleasant fragrance, followed by small green fruits that turn red when ripe. The Hairy Melicope is a great addition to any garden or landscape due to its striking appearance and ability to attract butterflies and bees.
Care Guide
Water: The Hairy Melicope prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization: Fertilize the Hairy Melicope with a slow-release fertilizer every six months during the growing season.
Soil: The Hairy Melicope prefers well-draining, fertile soil. Amend the soil with organic matter before planting.
Sunlight: The Hairy Melicope prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as much.
Hardiness Zones: The Hairy Melicope is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hairy Melicope is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. Treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Hairy Melicope is native to Hawaii and can be found in dry and mesic forests, coastal areas, and shrublands. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall can the Hairy Melicope grow?
A: The Hairy Melicope can grow up to 30 feet tall.
Q: What kind of soil does the Hairy Melicope prefer?
A: The Hairy Melicope prefers well-draining, fertile soil.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Hairy Melicope?
A: The Hairy Melicope is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Q: Can the Hairy Melicope attract butterflies and bees?
A: Yes, the Hairy Melicope can attract butterflies and bees due to its small white flowers.
Related Plants
- Melicope haupuensis
- Melicope knudsenii
- Melicope ovalis
- Melicope pallida
References
- “Melicope Simplex.” Floridata. Accessed September 18, 2021. https://floridata.com/Plants/Rutaceae/Melicope+simplex/1039.
- “Melicope Simplex.” Plant Finder. Accessed September 18, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b729.
