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Description
Nauclea Orientalis, commonly known as Leichhardt pine, is a perennial tree that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. This tree is native to Asia, Australia, and the Pacific region. Nauclea Orientalis is a fast-growing tree that can reach up to 30 meters in height with a trunk diameter of up to 60 centimeters. It has a straight trunk with a grayish-brown bark that is rough and scaly. The leaves are simple, opposite, and elliptical in shape, measuring 5-12 centimeters in length and 2-6 centimeters in width. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, measuring about 1 centimeter in diameter. The fruits are ovoid in shape, measuring about 2 centimeters in length and 1.5 centimeters in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Nauclea |
| Species | Orientalis |
Appearance
Nauclea Orientalis has a distinct appearance that makes it easily recognizable. The tree has a straight trunk with a grayish-brown bark that is rough and scaly. The leaves are simple, opposite, and elliptical in shape, measuring 5-12 centimeters in length and 2-6 centimeters in width. The upper surface of the leaves is dark green, while the lower surface is light green. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, measuring about 1 centimeter in diameter. The fruits are ovoid in shape, measuring about 2 centimeters in length and 1.5 centimeters in width. Overall, Nauclea Orientalis has a graceful appearance that makes it an excellent choice for landscaping.
Care Guide
Nauclea Orientalis is a relatively low-maintenance tree, but it still requires proper care to thrive. Here are some tips on how to take care of Nauclea Orientalis:Water: Nauclea Orientalis prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the dormant season.Fertilization: Fertilize Nauclea Orientalis once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package carefully.Soil: Nauclea Orientalis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH of 6-7.Sunlight: Nauclea Orientalis prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Make sure the tree receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Nauclea Orientalis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nauclea Orientalis is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be affected by the following:Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes circular spots on the leaves that are yellow or brown in color.Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the tree, causing distorted leaves and stunted growth.Scale Insects: These insects attach themselves to the bark of the tree and feed on its sap, causing yellowing leaves and stunted growth.
Habitat
Nauclea Orientalis is native to Asia, Australia, and the Pacific region. It grows in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, monsoon forests, and savannas. Nauclea Orientalis prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and can grow in USDA zones 9-11.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Nauclea Orientalis a fast-growing tree?A: Yes, Nauclea Orientalis is a fast-growing tree that can reach up to 30 meters in height.Q: What kind of soil does Nauclea Orientalis prefer?A: Nauclea Orientalis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH of 6-7.Q: What kind of pests can affect Nauclea Orientalis?A: Nauclea Orientalis can be affected by aphids, scale insects, and leaf spot.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Nauclea Orientalis?A: Nauclea Orientalis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Nauclea Orientalis:
- Nauclea Diderrichii
- Nauclea Latifolia
- Nauclea Punctata
References
- Nauclea orientalis – Leichhardt pine. (n.d.). Retrieved May 27, 2021, from https://www.southwestnrm.org.au/content/leichhardt-pine.
- Nauclea orientalis. (n.d.). Retrieved May 27, 2021, from https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/gnp6/nauclea-orientalis.html.
- Nauclea orientalis (Leichhardt pine). (n.d.). Retrieved May 27, 2021, from https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/plants-animals/plants/tree-planting/pdfs/leichhardt-pine.pdf.
