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Description
Sophora Chathamica, commonly known as the Chatham Island Kowhai, is a small tree or shrub that is native to the Chatham Islands off the coast of New Zealand. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and has yellow flowers that bloom in the spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya ||——–|———|| Kingdom | Plantae || Phylum | Tracheophyta || Class | Magnoliopsida || Order | Fabales || Family | Fabaceae || Genus | Sophora || Species | Chathamica |
Appearance
The Sophora Chathamica plant can grow up to 6 meters tall and has a spread of up to 3 meters. It has an upright habit with a single trunk and a rounded crown. The leaves are dark green and pinnate, with each leaf made up of 6-12 leaflets. The flowers are bright yellow and hang in clusters, blooming in the spring. The tree also produces brown seed pods that are up to 10cm long.
Care Guide
Sophora Chathamica is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and moist. It can tolerate full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Use well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and moist.Sunlight: The plant can tolerate full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sophora Chathamica is relatively disease and pest-resistant. However, it can be affected by caterpillars, aphids, and whiteflies. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and use appropriate measures to control them.
Habitat
Sophora Chathamica is native to the Chatham Islands, which are located about 800 kilometers east of New Zealand. It grows in open situations, including grassland, scrub, and forest margins.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the blooming season of Sophora Chathamica?
A: The plant blooms in the spring.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Sophora Chathamica?
A: The plant prefers slightly acidic soil.
Q: What are the common pests that affect Sophora Chathamica?
A: The plant can be affected by caterpillars, aphids, and whiteflies.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Sophora Chathamica?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Sophora genus:- Sophora japonica (Japanese pagoda tree)- Sophora tetraptera (kaikomako)- Sophora secundiflora (Texas mountain laurel)
References
– New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. (n.d.). Sophora chathamica. Retrieved from https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/sophora-chathamica/- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Sophora chathamica. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/221771/i-Sophora-chathamica-i/Details
