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Description
Quintinia Acutifolia is a small tree that is native to New Zealand. It is also known as the Toru and is a member of the family Escalloniaceae. The tree typically grows up to six meters in height and has a rounded shape. The bark is rough and dark brown, and the leaves are glossy and dark green. The tree blooms in the spring with small white flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Escalloniaceae |
| Genus | Quintinia |
Appearance
Quintinia Acutifolia has a dense canopy of dark green leaves that are glossy and oval-shaped. The leaves are about 2-4 cm long and have a pointed tip. The tree blooms in the spring with small white flowers that are about 5 mm in diameter. The flowers are grouped in clusters of about 3-5 and have a sweet fragrance. The tree produces small, red berries that are about 4-5 mm in diameter. The bark is rough and dark brown.
Care Guide
Water
Quintinia Acutifolia requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The tree does not tolerate drought well, and its leaves may wilt and drop if it does not receive enough water.
Fertilization
The tree should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Fertilizer should be applied at the base of the tree, and care should be taken not to over-fertilize, as this can damage the tree’s roots.
Soil
Quintinia Acutifolia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH of 5.5-6.5. The tree does not tolerate heavy clay soils.
Sunlight
The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Quintinia Acutifolia is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Quintinia Acutifolia is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including scale insects, mealybugs, and root rot. Scale insects and mealybugs can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Root rot can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged.
Habitat
Quintinia Acutifolia is native to New Zealand and is found in forests and along stream banks. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Quintinia Acutifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Quintinia Acutifolia can be grown in containers, but it will require regular watering and fertilization.Q: What is the best time to prune Quintinia Acutifolia?
A: Quintinia Acutifolia should be pruned in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.Q: How often should Quintinia Acutifolia be fertilized?
A: Quintinia Acutifolia should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.Q: Is Quintinia Acutifolia drought-tolerant?
A: No, Quintinia Acutifolia is not drought-tolerant and requires regular watering.
Related Plants
- Quintinia serrata
- Quintinia acutifolia ‘Bronze Beauty’
- Quintinia verdonii
References
- “Quintinia Acutifolia.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. http://nzpcn.org.nz/flora_details.aspx?ID=3052 (accessed February 22, 2021).
- “Quintinia Acutifolia.” PlantFiles. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/showimage/68534/ (accessed February 22, 2021).
- “Quintinia Acutifolia.” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/toru-tree/growing-toru-trees.htm (accessed February 22, 2021).
