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Description
Polyalthia Longifolia, commonly known as the Indian Mast Tree, is a species of evergreen tree native to India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. It belongs to the Annonaceae family and is known for its use in traditional medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Annonaceae |
| Genus | Polyalthia |
Appearance
The Polyalthia Longifolia tree can grow up to 20-40 meters tall with a trunk diameter of 1-1.5 meters. It has a conical or columnar crown with a dense foliage of glossy, dark green leaves that are 6-12 inches long and 2-4 inches wide. The tree also produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in clusters and are followed by oval-shaped fruits that are about 1-2 inches long.
Care Guide
Water: Polyalthia Longifolia trees require regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. However, make sure not to overwater the tree as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil: The tree prefers well-drained, fertile soil that is slightly acidic.
Sunlight: Polyalthia Longifolia trees require full sun to partial shade to thrive.
Hardiness Zones: The tree can grow in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Polyalthia Longifolia tree is susceptible to caterpillars, mealybugs, and scale insects. It can also develop leaf spot and root rot if overwatered. Regularly inspect the tree for signs of pests and diseases and take appropriate measures to control them.
Habitat
Polyalthia Longifolia trees are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and can grow in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and open areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Polyalthia Longifolia a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, the tree is relatively fast-growing and can grow up to 3-4 feet per year under optimal conditions.
Q: Can Polyalthia Longifolia be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in a container, but it may not reach its full potential size.
Q: Are the fruits of Polyalthia Longifolia edible?
A: No, the fruits are not edible and can be toxic if ingested.
Q: Does Polyalthia Longifolia have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, the tree is known for its use in traditional medicine for various ailments, including fever, inflammation, and skin diseases.
Related Plants
- Polyalthia Cerasoides
- Polyalthia Longifolia var. Pendula
- Polyalthia Fruticosa
References
- “Polyalthia Longifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286387.
- “Polyalthia Longifolia.” Gardening Know How, 2021, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/mast-tree/growing-mast-trees.htm.
- “Polyalthia Longifolia.” World Agroforestry, 2021, www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb/AFTPDFS/Polyalthia_longifolia.PDF.
