Contents
Description
Pinus Oocarpa, commonly known as Oocarpa Pine, is a species of pine tree found in Central America and southern Mexico. It is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 40 meters tall with a trunk diameter of up to 1 meter. The bark is thick, scaly, and gray-brown in color. The needles are long and slender, measuring between 15-30 cm in length, and grow in bundles of three. The cones are glossy and have a greenish-yellow color when young, turning dark brown when mature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Pinus |
Appearance
Oocarpa Pine has a straight trunk with a conical crown. The bark is thick and scaly, with a gray-brown color. The needles are long and slender, measuring between 15-30 cm in length, and grow in bundles of three. The cones are glossy and have a greenish-yellow color when young, turning dark brown when mature. The wood is light yellow-brown in color and is used for construction, furniture, and paper pulp.
Care Guide
Oocarpa Pine requires moderate watering and prefers well-draining soil. It grows best in full sun and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but is hardy to zones 9-11. Fertilize the tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the tree in the winter to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oocarpa Pine is susceptible to pests such as bark beetles, Ips beetles, and pine needle scale. Diseases that can affect this species include needle cast, rust, and root rot. Proper care and maintenance can help prevent these issues from occurring.
Habitat
Oocarpa Pine is native to Central America and southern Mexico, where it grows in high-altitude forests. It can also be found in plantations and as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Oocarpa Pine tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Oocarpa Pine is hardy to zones 9-11 and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but it may not survive in extremely cold climates.
Q: What is the wood of Oocarpa Pine used for?
A: The wood of Oocarpa Pine is used for construction, furniture, and paper pulp.
Q: How often should I water Oocarpa Pine?
A: Oocarpa Pine requires moderate watering and prefers well-draining soil. Water the tree when the soil is dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering.
Q: What pests and diseases are common in Oocarpa Pine?
A: Oocarpa Pine is susceptible to pests such as bark beetles, Ips beetles, and pine needle scale. Diseases that can affect this species include needle cast, rust, and root rot.
Related Plants
- Pinus patula
- Pinus tecunumanii
- Pinus montezumae
- Pinus pseudostrobus
References
- “Pinus oocarpa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on October 21, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286163.
- “Pinus oocarpa.” Trees and Shrubs Online. Accessed on October 21, 2021. https://treesandshrubsonline.org/articles/pinus/pinus-oocarpa/.
- “Oocarpa Pine.” The Gymnosperm Database. Accessed on October 21, 2021. http://www.conifers.org/pi/Pinus_oocarpa.php.
