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Description
Streblus Banksii, also known as the Toothbrush Tree, is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that originates from Asia and the Pacific. It belongs to the family Moraceae and is popularly grown for its ornamental value, as well as its medicinal properties. This tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a dark brown, rough bark with a diameter of up to 60 centimeters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Streblus |
Appearance
The Toothbrush Tree has a dense canopy of glossy, dark green leaves that are elliptical in shape and can grow up to 15 centimeters long. The flowers of this tree are small and greenish-yellow and are followed by small, edible fruits that are about 1.5 centimeters in diameter. The fruits are sweet and juicy and have a slightly acidic taste. The tree’s wood is hard and strong and is used in furniture making and for constructing buildings.
Care Guide
Water: Streblus Banksii prefers moist soil, but it should not be waterlogged. Water the plant about once a week, but increase the frequency during hot weather.
Fertilization: Fertilize the tree every 6 months with a balanced fertilizer. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package for the correct amount to use.
Soil: The Toothbrush Tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 6.0-7.5 is ideal.
Sunlight: Streblus Banksii prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to leggy growth and reduced flowering.
Hardiness Zones: This tree can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Toothbrush Tree is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The tree can also be affected by root rot if it is planted in soil that is too wet. To prevent this, be sure to plant it in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Streblus Banksii is native to Asia and the Pacific, where it can be found in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, coastal forests, and mangrove swamps. It is also commonly grown as an ornamental tree in tropical and subtropical regions around the world.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Streblus Banksii a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, it can grow up to 1 meter per year under ideal conditions.
Q: Can the fruits of the Toothbrush Tree be eaten?
A: Yes, the fruits are edible and have a sweet, slightly acidic taste.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Streblus Banksii tree?
A: Fertilize the tree every 6 months with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Streblus Banksii tolerate shade?
A: Yes, it can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to leggy growth and reduced flowering.
Related Plants
- Streblus Asper: Also known as Siamese rough bush, this tree is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly used in traditional medicine.
- Artocarpus Heterophyllus: Also known as jackfruit, this tree is native to South Asia and is popularly grown for its edible fruit.
- Ficus Benjamina: Also known as weeping fig, this tree is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant.
References
- “Streblus Banksii.” Australian Tropical Rainforest Plants. Accessed 23 Aug. 2021. http://keys.trin.org.au/key-server/data/0e0f0504-0103-430d-8004-060d07080d04/media/Html/taxon/Streblus_banksii.htm.
- “Streblus Banksii.” Pacific Island Ecosystems at Risk (PIER). Accessed 23 Aug. 2021. https://www.hear.org/pier/species/streblus_banksii.htm.
- “Streblus Banksii.” PlantNET – NSW Flora Online. Accessed 23 Aug. 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Streblus~banksii.
