Pericopsis

Description

Pericopsis is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to tropical Africa and comprises about 15 species of trees. The most well-known species is Pericopsis elata, commonly referred to as African teak or afrormosia. This tree is highly valued for its durable and attractive wood, which is used for flooring, furniture, and decorative veneers. It is also known for its medicinal properties, with various parts of the plant used to treat a wide range of ailments.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Pericopsis trees can grow up to 50 meters tall and have a straight, cylindrical trunk that can reach a diameter of up to 2 meters. The bark is grayish-brown and has deep vertical fissures. The leaves are alternate, compound, and imparipinnate, with 5-11 leaflets. The flowers are yellow and papilionaceous, arranged in axillary and terminal racemes. The fruit is a woody pod that is about 20-30 cm long and contains several seeds.

Care Guide

Pericopsis trees require full sunlight and well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients. They are adapted to tropical climates and thrive in warm and humid conditions. Watering should be done regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilization can be done once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer. Pericopsis trees are hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but they prefer zones 10-12.

Common Pests & Diseases

Pericopsis trees are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be affected by fungal infections such as root rot and leaf spot. Insect pests such as mealybugs and scale insects can also infest the tree. Regular monitoring and proper care can prevent these problems from occurring.

Habitat

Pericopsis trees are native to tropical Africa and can be found in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, gallery forests, and savannas. They are commonly found in countries such as Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, and Angola. Pericopsis elata is listed as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to overexploitation for its valuable wood.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Pericopsis elata the only species in the genus Pericopsis?

A: No, there are about 15 species in the genus Pericopsis, but Pericopsis elata is the most well-known.

Q: What are some common uses of Pericopsis wood?

A: Pericopsis wood is highly valued for its durability and attractive grain. It is used for flooring, furniture, and decorative veneers.

Q: Can Pericopsis trees be grown outside of their native range?

A: Pericopsis trees can be grown in tropical regions with similar climates to their native range, but they may not thrive in other environments.

Q: Is Pericopsis elata an endangered species?

A: Pericopsis elata is listed as a vulnerable species by the IUCN due to overexploitation for its valuable wood.

Related Plants

• Dalbergia
• Pterocarpus
• Schotia
• Tamarindus

References

• “Pericopsis elata.” IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, www.iucnredlist.org/species/32994/9738113.
• “Pericopsis elata.” World Agroforestry Centre, www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/speciesprofile.php?Spid=1829.
• “Pericopsis.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/browse/A/Leguminosae/Pericopsis/.