Contents
Description
Sloanea Dasycarpa, also known as the Sloanea, is a tropical evergreen tree that originates from the Amazon Basin, Brazil. It is popularly grown for its large, glossy leaves and unique flowers. Sloanea Dasycarpa can grow up to 20 meters tall and is commonly found in wet, humid forests.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Eleocarpaceae |
| Genus | Sloanea |
Appearance
Sloanea Dasycarpa has large, glossy leaves that are oval-shaped and can grow up to 50cm long. The leaves are dark green on the upper surface and lighter green on the underside. The flowers are unique and are formed in clusters of 5-10. They have a yellowish-green color and are approximately 2.5cm in diameter. The fruit is a woody capsule that is approximately 6cm long and 3cm wide. The capsule contains small, brown seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Sloanea Dasycarpa requires consistent moisture, so it’s important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry seasons.Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization, particularly during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.Soil: Sloanea Dasycarpa prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH of 5.5-6.5.Sunlight: Sloanea Dasycarpa prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause damage.Hardiness Zones: Sloanea Dasycarpa is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sloanea Dasycarpa is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including leaf spot, root rot, and scale insects. Leaf spot can be treated with a fungicide, while root rot can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage. Scale insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Sloanea Dasycarpa is native to the Amazon Basin, Brazil, where it grows in wet, humid forests. It prefers areas with consistent moisture and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Sloanea Dasycarpa?
A: Sloanea Dasycarpa requires consistent moisture, so it’s important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry seasons.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Sloanea Dasycarpa?
A: Sloanea Dasycarpa is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.Q: What pests are common to Sloanea Dasycarpa?
A: Sloanea Dasycarpa is susceptible to several pests, including scale insects.Q: What is the ideal pH for soil when growing Sloanea Dasycarpa?
A: Sloanea Dasycarpa prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5.
Related Plants
- Sloanea caribaea
- Sloanea jamaicensis
- Sloanea terniflora
- Sloanea tomentosa
References
- “Sloanea dasycarpa.” Plantz Africa, 2021, www.plantzafrica.com/plantnop/sloaneadas.htm.
- “Sloanea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d100.
- “Sloanea dasycarpa.” World Agroforestry Centre, 2021, www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb/AFTPDFS/Sloanea_dasycarpa.PDF.
