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Description
Pterospermum Heterophyllum, commonly known as Kanak Champa or Bayur Tree, is a medium-sized deciduous tree that belongs to the family Malvaceae. It is native to India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. The tree has a smooth, greyish bark and can reach a height of 20-25 meters. The leaves of Pterospermum Heterophyllum are large, broad, and elliptical in shape. They are dark green on the upper side and pale green on the underside. The tree produces fragrant white flowers that are bell-shaped and have a diameter of about 8 cm. The flowers bloom from April to June and are followed by woody capsules that contain winged seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Pterospermum |
Appearance
Pterospermum Heterophyllum has a distinctive appearance. The tree has a straight trunk with a wide spreading crown. The leaves are large, measuring up to 25 cm in length and 15 cm in width. They are dark green on the upper side and pale green on the underside. The flowers of Pterospermum Heterophyllum are white, bell-shaped, and have a diameter of about 8 cm. They appear in clusters of 2-7 and bloom from April to June. The fruit of the tree is a woody capsule that contains winged seeds.
Care Guide
To grow Pterospermum Heterophyllum successfully, you need to follow certain care guidelines. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering during the winter months.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall to promote healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: Pterospermum Heterophyllum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range is between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Pterospermum Heterophyllum is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pterospermum Heterophyllum is susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common:
- Scale Insects: These pests suck the sap from the tree’s leaves and can cause yellowing and wilting. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can be treated with a fungicide.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. It can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Pterospermum Heterophyllum is native to India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions and prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The tree is often found in forests, along riverbanks, and in urban parks and gardens.
Question and Answer
- Q: What is the height range of Pterospermum Heterophyllum?
- A: Pterospermum Heterophyllum can reach a height of 20-25 meters.
- Q: What is the ideal pH range for soil that supports Pterospermum Heterophyllum growth?
- A: The ideal pH range for soil that supports Pterospermum Heterophyllum growth is between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Q: When do the flowers of Pterospermum Heterophyllum appear?
- A: The flowers of Pterospermum Heterophyllum appear from April to June.
- Q: Which family does Pterospermum Heterophyllum belong to?
- A: Pterospermum Heterophyllum belongs to the family Malvaceae.
Related Plants
- Pterospermum acerifolium
- Pterospermum semisagittatum
- Pterospermum diversifolium
- Pterospermum suberifolium
References
- “Pterospermum Heterophyllum (KANAK CHAMPA).” Flowers of India, www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Kanak%20Champa.html.
- “Pterospermum Heterophyllum.” Plant Information Online, www.plantinfo.umn.edu/node/1421835.
- “Pterospermum Heterophyllum.” Tropical Plants Database, www.rain-tree.com/bayur.htm.
