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Description
Meliosma oldhamii, also known as the Taiwan umbrella tree, is a deciduous tree native to Taiwan. It belongs to the family Sabiaceae and can grow up to 15 meters tall. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown and smooth, and its leaves are alternate, simple, and oblong in shape. The tree produces small, yellow-green flowers in the spring, followed by black, berry-like fruits in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Sabiaceae |
| Genus: | Meliosma |
Appearance
The Taiwan umbrella tree has a distinct appearance with oblong, green leaves that can grow up to 20 centimeters long. The leaves have a glossy surface and are arranged alternately on the stem. In the spring, the tree produces small, yellow-green flowers that are around 3 millimeters in diameter. The flowers are followed by small, black, berry-like fruits that are around 1 centimeter in diameter. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown and smooth, with a few small fissures.
Care Guide
Water: Meliosma oldhamii prefers moist soil, but it is important to avoid overwatering the tree as this can lead to root rot. Water the tree deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering.Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in the spring and fall with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.Soil: The Taiwan umbrella tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal.Sunlight: The tree prefers partial shade to full sun.Hardiness Zones: Meliosma oldhamii is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Taiwan umbrella tree is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It is also important to watch for scale insects, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
Meliosma oldhamii is native to Taiwan, where it grows in forests and mountainous areas. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Meliosma oldhamii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in containers, but it will require regular pruning to keep it from outgrowing its container.Q: How often should I fertilize my Meliosma oldhamii tree?
A: Fertilize the tree in the spring and fall with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Meliosma oldhamii?
A: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal.Q: Is Meliosma oldhamii resistant to pests and diseases?
A: The tree is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It is also important to watch for scale insects, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Related Plants
- Meliosma dilleniifolia
- Meliosma simplicifolia
- Meliosma tenuis
- Meliosma veitchiorum
References
- “Meliosma oldhamii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286118&isprofile=0&cv=5
- “Meliosma oldhamii.” PlantZAfrica. http://pza.sanbi.org/meliosma-oldhamii
- “Meliosma oldhamii.” Plants of the World Online. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:711872-1
