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Description
Melliodendron xylocarpum, also known as Moulmein Rosewood or Burmese Rosewood, is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos. The tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a diameter of up to 100 centimeters. Its bark is grayish-brown and its leaves are pinnate, with 7 to 9 leaflets. The flowers are white or yellow and bloom from November to February. The fruit is a woody pod that splits open when ripe, revealing its seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Melliodendron |
| Species | Melliodendron xylocarpum |
Appearance
Melliodendron xylocarpum has a straight and tall trunk with a rounded or spreading crown. Its bark is smooth and grayish-brown, becoming scaly as the tree ages. The leaves are pinnate, with 7 to 9 leaflets that are lance-shaped and about 10 to 20 centimeters long. The flowers are white or yellow and arranged in clusters at the end of the branches. They bloom from November to February. The fruit is a woody pod that is roughly 10 to 20 centimeters long and splits open when ripe, revealing its seeds.
Care Guide
Melliodendron xylocarpum requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant:
Water: The tree needs regular watering, especially during the dry season. However, it should not be overwatered as it can cause root rot.
Fertilization: The tree can be fertilized twice a year, once during the rainy season and once during the dry season. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10.
Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 6 to 7.5.
Sunlight: The tree requires full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate full sun but may need some protection during the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones: Melliodendron xylocarpum is hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11.
Common Pests and Diseases
Melliodendron xylocarpum is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Other possible diseases include leaf spot and powdery mildew. Pests that may attack the tree include spider mites and scale insects. Regular monitoring and proper care can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Melliodendron xylocarpum is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos. It grows in tropical and subtropical forests, usually in well-draining soils near rivers and streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Melliodendron xylocarpum be grown in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow Melliodendron xylocarpum in containers, it is not recommended as the tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and requires a lot of space to grow properly.
Q: Does Melliodendron xylocarpum produce fruits?
A: Yes, Melliodendron xylocarpum produces a woody pod that splits open when ripe, revealing its seeds.
Q: Is Melliodendron xylocarpum endangered?
A: Yes, Melliodendron xylocarpum is considered endangered due to habitat loss and overexploitation for its wood.
Q: Can Melliodendron xylocarpum be used for timber?
A: Yes, Melliodendron xylocarpum is valued for its hard and durable wood, which is used for furniture, flooring, and construction.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Fabaceae family:
- Dalbergia nigra
- Dalbergia sissoo
- Dalbergia odorifera
- Dalbergia latifolia
References
- “Melliodendron xylocarpum.” The Plant List. Accessed 18 Oct. 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/ild-3235
- “Melliodendron xylocarpum.” World Agroforestry. Accessed 18 Oct. 2021. https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb/AFTPDFS/Melliodendron_xylocarpum.PDF
- “Moulmein Rosewood.” Wood Database. Accessed 18 Oct. 2021. https://www.wood-database.com/wood-articles/moulmein-rosewood/
