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Description
Musanga cecropioides, commonly known as umbrella tree, is a fast-growing tropical tree that belongs to the family of Cecropiaceae. It is native to the West and Central African regions and is often found in the rainforests. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a trunk diameter of up to 1 meter. The leaves are large, up to 1 meter in diameter, and are arranged in a whorl at the top of the stem. The tree produces small greenish-white flowers that develop into large fruit pods.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Cecropiaceae |
| Genus | Musanga |
Appearance
The umbrella tree has a striking appearance due to its large, circular, and flat-topped crown of leaves. The leaves are bright green and have a smooth texture. The tree’s bark is gray-brown and has a rough texture. The fruit pods are large and resemble a small pumpkin, with a greenish-yellow color when ripe. The flowers are small and unremarkable, but they produce a fruity fragrance.
Care Guide
The umbrella tree is relatively easy to care for, but it does require some attention to flourish. Here are some tips for caring for your umbrella tree:
Water: The tree requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. Water the tree deeply but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: The tree benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer, especially during the growing season.
Soil: The umbrella tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The tree thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but prefers direct sunlight.
Hardiness Zones: The umbrella tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-12, but it can also grow in warmer parts of zone 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The umbrella tree is relatively pest-resistant, but it can be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or a horticultural oil spray. The tree is also susceptible to root rot if overwatered, so be sure to avoid this by providing proper drainage.
Habitat
The umbrella tree is native to the rainforests of West and Central Africa, where it can be found growing in the understory of the forest. It prefers warm and humid conditions, and it can tolerate some drought. The tree is often used for medicinal purposes, and its wood is used for construction and making furniture.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the umbrella tree poisonous?
A: No, the tree is not poisonous.
Q: Can the umbrella tree be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough sunlight.
Q: How fast does the umbrella tree grow?
A: The tree is a fast grower and can reach its full height within a few years.
Q: Can the umbrella tree survive in cold climates?
A: No, the tree is not cold-hardy and cannot survive in climates with freezing temperatures.
Related Plants
- Cecropia
- Piper umbellatum
- Brosimum
References
- “Musanga cecropioides.” Floridata. Accessed 15 June 2021. <https://floridata.com/Plants/Urticaceae/Musanga+cecropioides/515>
- “Umbrella Tree.” The Spruce. Accessed 15 June 2021. <https://www.thespruce.com/grow-umbrella-tree-indoors-1902872>
- “Musanga cecropioides.” Useful Tropical Plants Database. Accessed 15 June 2021. <https://uses.plantnet-project.org/en/Musanga_cecropioides_(PROTA)>
