Contents
Description
Styrax Gentryi is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Styracaceae family. This plant is native to Central America, specifically in the highlands of Guatemala and Honduras. It was named after American botanist, Julian Alfred Steyermark, who collected the type specimens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Styracaceae |
| Genus | Styrax |
| Species | Gentryi |
Appearance
Styrax Gentryi is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 6 meters tall. The leaves are ovate, dark green, and glossy. The flowers are white or cream-colored and have a sweet fragrance. They appear in clusters and bloom from late spring to early summer. The fruit is a capsule that contains small black seeds.
Care Guide
Styrax Gentryi requires moderate care, but it is not difficult to grow. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant Styrax Gentryi in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade, but it can tolerate full sun if the soil is kept moist.
- Hardiness Zones: Styrax Gentryi is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Styrax Gentryi is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to curl. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Scale: These insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and a sticky residue on the plant. Use horticultural oil to control them.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly-draining soil. To prevent it, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Styrax Gentryi is native to the highlands of Guatemala and Honduras. It grows in moist, well-drained soils in cloud forests and pine-oak forests at elevations of 1200 to 2400 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Styrax Gentryi a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Styrax Gentryi is a relatively easy plant to grow and care for.
Q: Can Styrax Gentryi grow in full sun?
A: Yes, Styrax Gentryi can tolerate full sun, but it prefers partial shade.
Q: How often should I water Styrax Gentryi?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Styrax Gentryi?
A: Styrax Gentryi is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Related Plants
- Styrax Americanus
- Styrax Benzoin
- Styrax japonicus
- Styrax obassia
References
- Styrax gentryi. (n.d.). Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved November 16, 2021, from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d949
- Styrax gentryi. (n.d.). Plant Delights Nursery. Retrieved November 16, 2021, from https://www.plantdelights.com/products/styrax-gentryi
- Styrax gentryi. (n.d.). The Natural History Museum. Retrieved November 16, 2021, from https://www.nhm.ac.uk/our-science/data/uk-species/species/styrax_gentryi.html
