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Description
Symplocos Cochinchinensis, also known as Vietnamese sweetleaf, is a small evergreen tree or shrub that belongs to the Symplocaceae family. It is native to Vietnam, China, and India and is known for its medicinal properties. The plant can reach a height of up to 10 meters and has a spread of up to 5 meters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Symplocaceae |
| Genus | Symplocos |
Appearance
Symplocos Cochinchinensis has glossy, dark green leaves that are 10-20 cm long and 4-9 cm wide. The leaves are leathery and have a wavy margin. The plant produces small, white, fragrant flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. The fruit is a small capsule that contains tiny seeds.
Care Guide
Water
Symplocos Cochinchinensis prefers moist but well-drained soil. It is important to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant regularly and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization
Fertilize Symplocos Cochinchinensis with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
Soil
Symplocos Cochinchinensis prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It can tolerate a variety of soil types but does not do well in heavy clay soils.
Sunlight
Symplocos Cochinchinensis prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade but will not bloom as profusely.
Hardiness Zones
Symplocos Cochinchinensis is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Symplocos Cochinchinensis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
Symplocos Cochinchinensis is native to Vietnam, China, and India. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and scrublands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Symplocos Cochinchinensis a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Symplocos Cochinchinensis has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
Q: Can Symplocos Cochinchinensis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Symplocos Cochinchinensis can be grown in a container but will require regular pruning to control its size.
Q: Does Symplocos Cochinchinensis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Symplocos Cochinchinensis is attractive to birds and butterflies.
Q: How often should Symplocos Cochinchinensis be pruned?
A: Symplocos Cochinchinensis should be pruned in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Prune to control the size and shape of the plant.
Related Plants
- Symplocos Crataegoides
- Symplocos Racemosa
- Symplocos Tinctoria
- Symplocos Paniculata
References
- https://www.thespruce.com/symplocos-cochinchinensis-3269345
- https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Symplocos+cochinchinensis
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/symplocos/symplocos-cochinchinensis-growing.htm
- https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/symplocos-cochinchinensis/common-name/vietnamese-sweetleaf/
