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Description
Mitrephora Tomentosa, also known as the Velvet Mitrephora or Kepaya, is a tropical evergreen tree that belongs to the family Annonaceae. This plant is native to Southeast Asia, specifically in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. It is known for its beautiful and fragrant flowers that bloom all year round.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Annonaceae |
| Genus | Mitrephora |
Appearance
The Mitrephora Tomentosa can grow up to 25 meters in height in its natural habitat. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped. The flowers are large, about 5-7 cm in diameter, and have a pleasant fragrance. They are yellow-green in color with a purple center. The fruit of this plant is edible and is about 3-4 cm in diameter. It has a green skin that turns yellow when ripe.
Care Guide
The Mitrephora Tomentosa requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH level of 5.5-6.5 is ideal.
- Sunlight: The Mitrephora Tomentosa prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing your plant to direct sunlight for extended periods.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Mitrephora Tomentosa is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can still be affected by the following:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
- Scale insects: These insects attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting. Use neem oil to control them.
- Fungal diseases: These diseases can cause leaf spots, wilting, and root rot. Make sure to water your plant properly and avoid over-fertilization.
Habitat
The Mitrephora Tomentosa is native to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia. It thrives in warm and humid environments with plenty of rainfall. It can also grow in well-draining soil with a pH level of 5.5-6.5.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the fruit of the Mitrephora Tomentosa be eaten?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible and has a sweet and sour taste.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Mitrephora Tomentosa?
A: Fertilize your plant every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: What is the ideal pH level for the soil of the Mitrephora Tomentosa?
A: The ideal pH level is 5.5-6.5.
Q: What is the hardiness zone of the Mitrephora Tomentosa?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Related Plants
- Mitrephora Balansae
- Mitrephora Celebica
- Mitrephora Maingayi
- Mitrephora Tinctoria
References
- “Mitrephora Tomentosa.” Useful Tropical Plants. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Mitrephora+tomentosa.
- “Mitrephora Tomentosa.” World Agroforestry Centre. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/AFTPDFS/Mitrephora_tomentosa.PDF.
- “Mitrephora Tomentosa.” The Plant List. Accessed August 10, 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-128126.
