Contents
Description
Pterocelastrus Rostratus is a small tree that belongs to the Celastraceae family. It is native to Africa and is commonly known as the “Bird-lime” or “Monkey-Rope” tree. The tree can grow up to 10 meters tall and has a gray-brown bark. The leaves are simple, alternate, and have a glossy dark green color. The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a yellow-green capsule that contains reddish seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Celastrales |
| Family | Celastraceae |
| Genus | Pterocelastrus |
| Species | Rostratus |
Appearance
Pterocelastrus Rostratus has a unique appearance that makes it stand out among other trees. The tree has a slender trunk with a few, irregular branches that grow in a zigzag pattern. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a glossy dark green color. The tree produces small, white flowers that grow in clusters. The fruit is a yellow-green capsule that contains reddish seeds. The bark is gray-brown and has a smooth texture.
Care Guide
Pterocelastrus Rostratus is a low-maintenance tree that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips to help you keep your tree healthy:- Water: The tree requires moderate watering during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring to promote growth.- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The tree can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Pterocelastrus Rostratus can grow in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pterocelastrus Rostratus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can still be affected by some common issues such as:- Mealybugs: These pests can cause yellowing and distortion of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and premature dropping of the leaves. Use horticultural oil to control them.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly draining soil. Make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Pterocelastrus Rostratus is native to Africa and can be found in a variety of habitats such as forests, woodlands, and savannas. The tree prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pterocelastrus Rostratus be grown indoors?
A: No, the tree requires full sun and is not suitable for indoor growing.
Q: How often should I water my Pterocelastrus Rostratus?
A: Water the tree moderately during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
Q: Does Pterocelastrus Rostratus require pruning?
A: The tree does not require pruning but can be pruned to control its size or shape.
Q: What is the best soil for Pterocelastrus Rostratus?
A: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Related Plants
– Pterocelastrus echinatus- Celastrus paniculatus- Euonymus japonicus- Maytenus ilicifolia
References
– “Pterocelastrus Rostratus.” PlantZAfrica, 29 Oct. 2015, http://pza.sanbi.org/pterocelastrus-rostratus.- “Pterocelastrus Rostratus.” World Agroforestry Centre, http://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb/AFTPDFS/Pterocelastrus_rostratus.PDF.
