Pisonia Capitata

Description

Pisonia Capitata, commonly known as the Umbrella tree, is a tropical evergreen tree that belongs to the Nyctaginaceae family. It is native to the Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia, and Northern Australia. The Umbrella tree is a fast-growing tree that can reach heights of up to 50 feet and can spread up to 25 feet wide. It has a single trunk and a rounded canopy of leaves that resemble an umbrella, hence its name.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Caryophyllales
Family	Nyctaginaceae
Genus	Pisonia

Appearance

The Umbrella tree has large, glossy, and dark green leaves that are oval-shaped with pointed tips. The leaves grow up to 10 inches long and 6 inches wide. The tree produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that turn into small, green, and fleshy fruit. The fruit is not edible and can cause skin irritation if touched. The tree has shallow roots, making it susceptible to falling during heavy winds and storms.

Care Guide

The Umbrella tree is easy to care for and is a great option for gardeners who want a low-maintenance tree. Here are some care tips:

• Water: Water the tree regularly, especially during the growing season. Ensure that the soil is moist, but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
• Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix that is designed for tropical plants if growing it in a container.
• Sunlight: The Umbrella tree prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Ensure that it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: The tree can grow in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Umbrella tree is prone to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled by spraying the tree with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The tree is also susceptible to root rot if over-watered, which can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining.

Habitat

The Umbrella tree is native to the Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia, and Northern Australia. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions and can be found in coastal areas, forests, and along riverbanks.

Question and Answer

Q: Is the Umbrella tree poisonous?

A: The tree is not poisonous, but its fruit can cause skin irritation if touched.

Q: How fast does the Umbrella tree grow?

A: The tree is a fast grower and can reach heights of up to 50 feet in ideal growing conditions.

Q: Can the Umbrella tree be grown indoors?

A: Yes, the tree can be grown indoors in a container. Ensure that it receives enough sunlight and is watered regularly.

Q: How often should the Umbrella tree be pruned?

A: The tree does not require frequent pruning. Prune it only to remove dead or damaged branches or to maintain its shape.

Related Plants

• Pisonia Alba
• Pisonia Grandis
• Pisonia Subcordata

References

• “Pisonia Capitata.” Floridata, www.floridata.com/Plants/Nyctaginaceae/Pisonia%20capitata/1446.
• “Umbrella Tree.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/growing-umbrella-trees-1902834.
• “Pisonia Capitata.” Trees of Stanford & Environs, trees.stanford.edu/ENCYC/PISO.htm.