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Description
Phyllocladus Hypophyllus, commonly known as the mountain celery-pine, is an evergreen coniferous tree that belongs to the Phyllocladaceae family. It is native to New Zealand and can grow up to 15 meters tall. This tree has a unique feature of flattened branchlets that resemble leaves, called ‘phyllodes’ which are green on top and a paler green underneath. The phyllodes are about 1.5cm long, 0.5-1cm wide, and are arranged in whorls of five to seven.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Phyllocladaceae |
| Genus | Phyllocladus |
Appearance
The Phyllocladus Hypophyllus tree has a conical shape with a narrow crown. It has a reddish-brown bark that flakes off in small pieces. The phyllodes are arranged in a spiral pattern along the stems and are about 1.5cm long, 0.5-1cm wide. The male and female cones are small and inconspicuous, measuring only 0.5cm long. The male cones are green, while the female cones are reddish-brown.
Care Guide
Water: The tree requires consistent moisture, so it is important to water it regularly during dry periods.Fertilization: Phyllocladus Hypophyllus trees do not require much fertilizer. However, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring to promote healthy growth.Soil: This tree prefers well-drained, acidic soil.Sunlight: The Phyllocladus Hypophyllus tree prefers partial shade, but it can tolerate full sun.Hardiness Zones: This tree can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phyllocladus Hypophyllus trees are not commonly affected by pests and diseases. However, it is susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-drained.
Habitat
The Phyllocladus Hypophyllus tree is native to New Zealand and is found in the North and South Islands. It grows in moist, shady areas in the mountains and is often found in beech forests.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phyllocladus Hypophyllus a rare tree species?
A: Yes, it is considered a threatened species due to habitat destruction and introduced pests. Q: Can Phyllocladus Hypophyllus be planted in a container?
A: Yes, it can be planted in a container, but it will require regular watering and fertilization. Q: How fast does Phyllocladus Hypophyllus grow?
A: It has a slow to moderate growth rate, growing about 30cm per year. Q: Can Phyllocladus Hypophyllus be used as a bonsai tree?
A: Yes, it can be used as a bonsai tree, but it will require careful pruning and shaping.
Related Plants
- Phyllocladus Alpinus
- Phyllocladus Aspleniifolius
- Phyllocladus Glauca
- Phyllocladus Tenuifolius
References
- “Phyllocladus hypophyllus.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/phyllocladus-hypophyllus/
- “Phyllocladus hypophyllus.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/phyllocladus-hypophyllus/
- “Phyllocladus hypophyllus.” International Union for Conservation of Nature. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/42356/2977706
