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Description
Paraserianthes Lophantha, also known as Albizia Lophantha or plume albizia, is a deciduous tree belonging to the Fabaceae family. This plant is native to Australia, where it grows naturally in the dry open forests and woodlands. It is popularly grown as an ornamental tree in many parts of the world, including the United States and South Africa.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Paraserianthes |
Appearance
The Paraserianthes Lophantha tree can grow up to 25 feet tall and 20 feet wide. It has a spreading, open canopy with delicate, feathery leaves that are light green in color. The leaves are bipinnate, meaning they have two rows of leaflets on either side of the stem. The flowers are white, fragrant, and arranged in clusters that bloom in late summer to early fall. The tree produces flat, woody seed pods that are about 5 inches long and contain up to ten seeds.
Care Guide
The Paraserianthes Lophantha tree is easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. It can grow in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining soil. The tree needs regular watering during the first few years of growth, but can tolerate drought once established. Fertilize the tree in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer. The tree is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Paraserianthes Lophantha tree is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, scale insects, or mealybugs. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The tree may also be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring good drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
The Paraserianthes Lophantha tree is native to Australia, where it grows naturally in the dry open forests and woodlands. It is commonly grown as an ornamental tree in many parts of the world, including the United States and South Africa.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Paraserianthes Lophantha tree drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, the tree can tolerate drought once established.
Q: What type of fertilizer should I use for the Paraserianthes Lophantha tree?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Paraserianthes Lophantha tree?
A: The tree is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 9-11.
Q: What pests and diseases are common in the Paraserianthes Lophantha tree?
A: Spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs may occasionally affect the tree. It may also be affected by root rot.
Related Plants
- Paraserianthes falcataria
- Paraserianthes lophophylla
- Paraserianthes aculeata
- Paraserianthes alata
References
- “Paraserianthes Lophantha.” Floridata. Accessed 14 Feb. 2022. <https://floridata.com/plant/215>
- “Albizia lophantha.” Pacific Island Ecosystems at Risk. Accessed 14 Feb. 2022. <https://www.hear.org/pier/species/albizia_lophantha.htm>
- “Paraserianthes Lophantha.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 14 Feb. 2022. <https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/st157>
