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Description
Planera is a genus of flowering plants in the family Ulmaceae, containing a single species called Planera aquatica. This unique plant is commonly known as water elm, and it is native to the southeastern United States. Planera is a small to medium-sized tree that can reach up to 35 feet tall and 18 inches in diameter. It has a broad, rounded crown and a straight trunk that is often crooked or leaning. The bark is smooth and gray, becoming fissured with age. Planera produces small, greenish-white flowers in early spring before the leaves emerge. The fruit is a small, winged samara that ripens in late summer or fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukarya||————-|———–|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Spermatophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Rosales|| Family| Ulmaceae|| Genus| Planera|| Species| Planera aquatica |
Appearance
Planera has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other plants. The leaves are alternate, simple, and elliptic to ovate in shape. They are 1-3 inches long and 0.5-1.5 inches wide, with serrated margins and a glossy, dark green color. The leaves turn yellow in the fall before dropping. The twigs are slender and green, becoming gray with age. Planera has a shallow root system and is often found growing in wetlands, swamps, and along streams and rivers.
Care Guide
Planera is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires moderate care. Here are some tips for keeping your Planera healthy and thriving:- Water: Planera prefers moist to wet soil and can tolerate occasional flooding. Water regularly during dry periods to prevent stress.- Fertilization: Planera does not require fertilizer, but you can apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring if desired.- Soil: Planera prefers well-draining, acidic soil. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, sand, and loam.- Sunlight: Planera prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade, but growth may be slower.- Hardiness Zones: Planera is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Planera is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to certain issues. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and stunted growth. Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and ensure good air circulation to prevent spread.- Root rot: This fungal disease can occur in wet soil and cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent.
Habitat
Planera is native to the southeastern United States, where it is found in wetlands, swamps, and along streams and rivers. It is often found growing in association with other wetland species, such as bald cypress, tupelo, and black gum. Planera is an important component of wetland ecosystems, providing habitat and food for a variety of wildlife.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Planera a good plant for a wetland restoration project?
A: Yes, Planera can be a good choice for wetland restoration projects, as it is well-adapted to wet soil and provides habitat for wildlife.
Q: Can Planera tolerate full shade?
A: Yes, Planera can tolerate full shade, but growth may be slower compared to plants growing in partial shade or full sun.
Q: Does Planera require fertilizer?
A: No, Planera does not require fertilizer, but you can apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring if desired.
Q: What is the best time to prune Planera?
A: Prune Planera in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Avoid pruning in late summer or fall, as this can stimulate new growth that may be damaged by frost.
Related Plants
– Ulmus americana (American elm)- Ulmus rubra (slippery elm)- Celtis occidentalis (common hackberry)- Liquidambar styraciflua (sweetgum)- Nyssa sylvatica (black gum)
References
– “Planera aquatica.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed on 27 May 2021 from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PLAQ.- “Water Elm.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on 27 May 2021 from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=292102&isprofile=0&.- “Planera aquatica.” Floridata. Accessed on 27 May 2021 from https://floridata.com/plant/1146.
