Contents
Description
Neolitsea Acuminatissima, commonly known as the Chinese silver litsea, is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that belongs to the Lauraceae family. The tree is native to China, Taiwan, and other parts of Southeast Asia. The plant can grow up to 15 meters tall and has a dense foliage crown. The leaves are glossy and leathery, with a length of 6-12 cm and a width of 3-5 cm. The tree produces small, white to yellowish-green flowers that bloom in early summer, followed by small, spherical berries that turn from green to black when mature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Laurales |
| Family | Lauraceae |
| Genus | Neolitsea |
Appearance
The Neolitsea Acuminatissima has a symmetrical and compact growth habit with a dense foliage crown. The tree has a smooth and grayish-brown bark that often flakes off in thin strips. The leaves are oblong-elliptic and glossy, with a dark green color on top and a lighter green color on the bottom. The underside of the leaves has fine hairs that give it a velvety texture. The tree produces small, white to yellowish-green flowers that bloom in early summer, followed by small, spherical berries that turn from green to black when mature.
Care Guide
Water
The Neolitsea Acuminatissima requires regular watering during its growing season, from spring to fall. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. During the winter months, the plant can tolerate drier conditions but should not be allowed to completely dry out.
Fertilization
The Chinese silver litsea benefits from regular fertilization during its growing season. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 is recommended. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the spring and summer months.
Soil
The Neolitsea Acuminatissima prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal for growing this plant.
Sunlight
The Chinese silver litsea requires partial shade to full sun exposure. It can tolerate full sun exposure in cooler climates but may suffer from leaf scorch in hotter climates.
Hardiness Zones
The Neolitsea Acuminatissima is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Chinese silver litsea is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may suffer from leaf spots, root rot, and scale insects. Proper watering and fertilization can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
The Neolitsea Acuminatissima is native to China, Taiwan, and other parts of Southeast Asia. The tree grows in subtropical and tropical forests and is often found in low elevations. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Neolitsea Acuminatissima a fast-growing tree?
A: The Chinese silver litsea is a medium to slow-growing tree, with an average growth rate of 1-2 feet per year.
Q: Can the Neolitsea Acuminatissima be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the Chinese silver litsea can be grown in containers. However, it may require more frequent watering and fertilization than when grown in the ground.
Q: Does the Neolitsea Acuminatissima require pruning?
A: The Chinese silver litsea may require occasional pruning to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: Can the Neolitsea Acuminatissima be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the Chinese silver litsea can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
- Neolitsea Cassia
- Neolitsea Sericea
- Neolitsea Umbrosa
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Neolitsea acuminatissima. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c426
- PlantVillage. (n.d.). Neolitsea acuminatissima. Retrieved from https://www.plantvillage.com/en/topics/neolitsea-acuminatissima
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (n.d.). Neolitsea acuminatissima: Chinese silver litsea. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FP/FP50400.pdf
