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Description
Rhizophora Stylosa is a species of mangrove tree that belongs to the Rhizophoraceae family. It is commonly known as the pencil mangrove due to its thin, pencil-like aerial roots. It is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, and the Philippines. This tree species is commonly found in coastal areas where the soil is waterlogged and the environment is saline.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Rhizophoraceae |
| Genus | Rhizophora |
| Species | Rhizophora Stylosa |
Appearance
Rhizophora Stylosa is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 10 meters tall. It has a dense and bushy crown with a rounded shape. The leaves are thick, glossy, and elliptical in shape, measuring between 10 to 15 centimeters in length. The tree produces small, white flowers that bloom throughout the year, with the peak blooming season occurring between September to December. The fruit is a small, green or yellow-brown capsule that contains a single seed. The aerial roots of the tree are thin and pencil-like, which is how it earned its common name.
Care Guide
Rhizophora Stylosa is a hardy tree species that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. However, for optimal growth, it is important to provide the tree with the following care:Water: Rhizophora Stylosa prefers moist soil and can tolerate occasional flooding. Ensure that the soil is always moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: The tree does not require regular fertilization, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied once per year during the growing season to promote growth.Soil: Rhizophora Stylosa grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate saline soil conditions.Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Rhizophora Stylosa is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhizophora Stylosa is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, the following pests and diseases can affect the tree:Pests: Aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects can infest the tree and cause damage to the leaves and stems.Diseases: The tree can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is waterlogged for extended periods.
Habitat
Rhizophora Stylosa is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in coastal areas, estuaries, and mangrove swamps. It grows in soil that is waterlogged and saline, making it well adapted to coastal environments. The tree plays an important ecological role in these ecosystems by providing habitat for wildlife, stabilizing the soil, and protecting the coastline from erosion.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rhizophora Stylosa be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Rhizophora Stylosa can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with a moist, well-draining soil mix and regular watering.Q: Can Rhizophora Stylosa tolerate saltwater?
A: Yes, Rhizophora Stylosa can tolerate saline soil and saltwater.Q: How fast does Rhizophora Stylosa grow?
A: Rhizophora Stylosa is a slow-growing tree, with an average growth rate of around 30 centimeters per year.Q: Is Rhizophora Stylosa an endangered species?
A: No, Rhizophora Stylosa is not currently classified as an endangered species.
Related Plants
Other species of mangrove trees in the Rhizophora genus include:- Rhizophora apiculata- Rhizophora mangle- Rhizophora mucronata- Rhizophora racemosa
References
– “Rhizophora stylosa.” IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Accessed on 29 August 2021. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/178843/7524684- “Rhizophora stylosa.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed on 29 August 2021. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:221435-2
