Contents
Description
Searsia pallens is a plant species that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. It is a small tree or shrub that is native to southern Africa. Searsia pallens has a light green bark, and the leaves are pinnate with three to seven leaflets. The flowers are small and yellowish-green, and the fruit is a small drupe that is red to black when ripe. Searsia pallens is commonly known as the “Karee” or “Karee Tree.” It is a hardy plant that can withstand drought and harsh weather conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Searsia |
Appearance
Searsia pallens is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 7 meters in height. The leaves are light green, and each leaf has three to seven leaflets that are elliptical in shape. The flowers are small and yellowish-green, and they appear from July to October. The fruit is a small drupe that is red to black when ripe. The bark of the tree is light brown and rough-textured.
Care Guide
Water: Searsia pallens is a drought-tolerant plant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter months.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year during the growing season with a slow-release fertilizer.
Soil: Searsia pallens prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Searsia pallens can grow in hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Searsia pallens is susceptible to pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects. It can also be affected by diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. To prevent pests and diseases, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and is not overwatered. Use insecticides or fungicides as necessary.
Habitat
Searsia pallens is native to southern Africa and is commonly found in dry savannas, woodlands, and rocky hillsides. The plant is well adapted to drought and can grow in harsh weather conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Searsia pallens a fast-growing plant?
A: No, Searsia pallens is a slow-growing plant.
Q: Can Searsia pallens grow in full shade?
A: No, the plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: How often should I fertilize Searsia pallens?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year during the growing season with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Searsia pallens?
A: Searsia pallens is susceptible to pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects. It can also be affected by diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew.
Related Plants
- Searsia Chirindensis
- Searsia Dentata
- Searsia Divaricata
- Searsia Glauca
References
- Van Wyk, B., & Van Wyk, P. (2013). Field guide to trees of southern Africa. Penguin Random House South Africa.
- Searsia pallens. (n.d.). PlantZAfrica. Retrieved October 28, 2021, from https://pza.sanbi.org/searsia-pallens/
- Plants of the World Online. (n.d.). Searsia pallens (Sond.) Moffett. Retrieved October 28, 2021, from http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:711342-1
