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Description
Sterculia Apetala, also known as the Panjang tree, is an evergreen tree native to the tropical regions of Asia. It belongs to the family Malvaceae and is known for its unique and attractive appearance. The tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a straight trunk with a diameter of up to 50 cm. The leaves are large and glossy, with an elliptical shape and a length of up to 30 cm. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow in color, and the fruit is a woody capsule that splits open to reveal seeds that are covered in a bright red aril.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Sterculia |
Appearance
The Sterculia Apetala has a unique and attractive appearance that makes it a popular choice for ornamental purposes. The tree has a straight trunk that can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a diameter of up to 50 cm. The bark is smooth and greyish-brown in color. The leaves are large and glossy, with an elliptical shape and a length of up to 30 cm. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow in color and are borne in clusters. The fruit is a woody capsule that is around 5 cm in diameter and contains seeds that are covered in a bright red aril.
Care Guide
The Sterculia Apetala is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a wide range of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought. Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
- Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix that is specifically formulated for tropical plants.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in full shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 10-11 and will not tolerate frost.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sterculia Apetala is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to the following:
- Mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Use an insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
- Mealybugs: These insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Use an insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can be caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. Avoid overwatering and ensure that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
The Sterculia Apetala is native to the tropical regions of Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The tree is commonly found in lowland rainforests and can grow in a wide range of soil types. It is often used for shade in coffee and cocoa plantations and is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Sterculia Apetala a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, the Sterculia Apetala is a relatively fast-growing tree and can grow up to 2 meters per year under ideal conditions.
Q: Can the Sterculia Apetala be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Sterculia Apetala can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location. However, it may not grow as tall as it would in its natural habitat.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Sterculia Apetala?
A: The Sterculia Apetala benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
Q: Can the Sterculia Apetala tolerate salt spray?
A: No, the Sterculia Apetala is not tolerant of salt spray and should not be planted in coastal areas.
Related Plants
- Sterculia Foetida
- Sterculia Quadrifida
- Sterculia Urens
References
- “Sterculia Apetala.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 26 May 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b575>.
- “Sterculia Apetala.” Useful Tropical Plants. Accessed 26 May 2021. <https://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Sterculia+apetala>.
- “Sterculia Apetala.” Plant Village. Accessed 26 May 2021. <https://www.plantvillage.com/en/topics/sterculia-apetala/diseases_and_pests_description>.
