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Description
Pterospermum Acerifolium, also known as the Kanak Champa, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Malvaceae. It is native to India, Nepal, and Myanmar and can grow up to 30 meters tall. The tree has a straight trunk and a pyramidal crown, while the leaves are large, lobed, and reminiscent of maple leaves. The flowers are bell-shaped and have a yellowish-white color, and the fruit is a capsule that contains winged seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Pterospermum |
Appearance
The Pterospermum Acerifolium tree has a striking appearance, with its large, lobed leaves that resemble maple leaves. The leaves are dark green on the upper side and paler underneath. The flowers are bell-shaped, have a yellowish-white color, and are about 5-7 cm in diameter. They grow in clusters and are very fragrant, making the tree popular for ornamental purposes. The fruit is a capsule that contains winged seeds, which are dispersed by the wind.
Care Guide
Pterospermum Acerifolium is a hardy tree that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: The tree prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Water the tree once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant period.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pterospermum Acerifolium tree is relatively pest-resistant but can be susceptible to certain diseases and pests, including:
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by a fungus and can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves. Treat with a fungicide.
- Scale Insects: These insects can infest the tree and cause yellowing of the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: These insects can defoliate the tree. Treat with Bacillus thuringiensis.
Habitat
Pterospermum Acerifolium is native to India, Nepal, and Myanmar and can be found in tropical and subtropical regions. The tree prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight, and can be found in forests, along riverbanks, and in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pterospermum Acerifolium a deciduous tree?
A: Yes, it is a deciduous tree that sheds its leaves during the dormant period.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pterospermum Acerifolium?
A: The hardiness zone for Pterospermum Acerifolium is 10-11.
Q: What is the fruit of Pterospermum Acerifolium?
A: The fruit of Pterospermum Acerifolium is a capsule that contains winged seeds.
Q: What is the common name for Pterospermum Acerifolium?
A: The common name for Pterospermum Acerifolium is Kanak Champa.
Related Plants
- Pterospermum diversifolium
- Pterospermum suberifolium
- Pterospermum rubiginosum
References
- “Pterospermum Acerifolium.” Floridata. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://floridata.com/plant/1282.
- “Pterospermum Acerifolium.” PlantFiles. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/194291/.
- “Pterospermum Acerifolium (L.) Willd.” The Plant List. Accessed August 25, 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2552732.
