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Description
Pithecellobium Keyense, commonly known as “Blackbead” or “Chichí” in Spanish, is a species of flowering plant in the pea family, Fabaceae. It is native to the Caribbean and Central America, and typically grows in tropical dry forests and coastal areas. The tree can reach up to 20 meters in height and has a trunk diameter of up to 50 centimeters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Pithecellobium |
Appearance
The leaves of Pithecellobium Keyense are compound and alternate, with 4 to 6 pairs of pinnae that are each 5 to 10 centimeters long. The tree produces small, white or pale pink flowers that are clustered in groups of 10 to 20. The fruit of the tree is a black or brownish-black pod that is flattened and oblong in shape, measuring 5 to 12 centimeters in length and 2 to 3 centimeters in width. The seeds inside the pod are oval-shaped and glossy.
Care Guide
Water: Pithecellobium Keyense prefers moist soil, but does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Water regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.Fertilization: Fertilize Pithecellobium Keyense every 3 to 4 months with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.Soil: Pithecellobium Keyense grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Pithecellobium Keyense prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Pithecellobium Keyense is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pithecellobium Keyense is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. It may also be affected by fungal leaf spots and root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Pithecellobium Keyense is native to the Caribbean and Central America, and is commonly found in tropical dry forests and coastal areas. The tree can also be found in disturbed areas and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Pithecellobium Keyense?
A: Water your Pithecellobium Keyense regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use on my Pithecellobium Keyense?
A: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer on your Pithecellobium Keyense every 3 to 4 months.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Pithecellobium Keyense?
A: Pithecellobium Keyense is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, mealybugs, fungal leaf spots, and root rot.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pithecellobium Keyense?
A: Pithecellobium Keyense is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.
Related Plants
- Pithecellobium Dulce
- Pithecellobium Flexicaule
- Pithecellobium Guadalupense
- Pithecellobium Jiringa
- Pithecellobium Lanceolatum
References
- “Pithecellobium Keyense.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science.
- “Pithecellobium Keyense.” The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
- “Blackbead.” Florida Native Plant Society.
