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Description
Schotia Brachypetala, also known as the African tree or the weeping boer bean, is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 10 meters tall. It is native to South Africa and is a member of the Fabaceae family. Schotia Brachypetala is known for its stunning red flowers, which bloom from August to November. The tree also produces a large number of pods that contain seeds, which are dispersed by birds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Schotia |
Appearance
Schotia Brachypetala has a wide, spreading crown and a thick trunk. The bark is dark brown and rough, with deep vertical fissures. The leaves are dark green and are made up of several pairs of leaflets. The flowers are the most striking feature of the tree, with bright red petals that form a bell-shaped flower. The tree produces an abundance of pods that are long and thin, and contain seeds that are covered in a bright red fleshy coating.
Care Guide
Schotia Brachypetala is a hardy tree that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this tree:- Water: The tree can tolerate both drought and flooding, but regular watering is recommended during the growing season.- Fertilization: The tree does not require regular fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring.- Soil: The tree can grow in a variety of soils, but prefers well-drained soil.- Sunlight: The tree requires full sun to thrive.- Hardiness Zones: Schotia Brachypetala is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Schotia Brachypetala is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:- Sooty mold: This fungal disease is caused by insect infestations and can be treated with insecticide.- Mealybugs: These insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.- Scale insects: These insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
Schotia Brachypetala is native to South Africa and is found in a variety of habitats, including woodland, savanna, and scrub. The tree prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take for Schotia Brachypetala to flower?
A: Schotia Brachypetala typically begins to flower after about 5-6 years.
Q: Can Schotia Brachypetala tolerate frost?
A: No, the tree is not frost-tolerant.
Q: Are the seeds of Schotia Brachypetala edible?
A: No, the seeds are not edible.
Q: Is Schotia Brachypetala a good shade tree?
A: Yes, the tree has a wide, spreading crown and can provide excellent shade.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Schotia Brachypetala:- Schotia Afra- Schotia Latifolia- Schotia Heterophylla
References
– “Schotia brachypetala.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/schotiabrachyp.htm.- “Schotia brachypetala.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280203&isprofile=0&.- “Schotia brachypetala.” Plantwise Knowledge Bank, CABI, www.plantwise.org/knowledgebank/datasheet/24788.
