Contents
Description
Symplocos Paniculata, commonly known as Lodhra, is an evergreen shrub or small tree that belongs to the Symplocaceae family. It is native to the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia and can be found in regions with tropical and subtropical climates. The plant has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for its medicinal properties, and extracts from its leaves and bark are used in various skincare products.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Symplocaceae |
| Genus | Symplocos |
Appearance
Symplocos Paniculata can grow up to 10 meters tall and has a rounded crown with a dense foliage of glossy, dark green leaves. The leaves are lance-shaped, 5-12 cm long, and arranged alternately on the stem. The plant produces small, white, fragrant flowers that are arranged in panicles and bloom in the spring. The fruit is a small, round drupe that turns black when ripe.
Care Guide
Symplocos Paniculata is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for your Lodhra:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate some dryness. Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Symplocos Paniculata can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Symplocos Paniculata is relatively pest and disease-free. However, here are some of the common pests and diseases that may affect the plant:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause distorted growth. Use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
- Scale insects: These insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and dropping of the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Symplocos Paniculata is native to the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia and can be found in regions with tropical and subtropical climates. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: What are some of the medicinal properties of Symplocos Paniculata?
A: Symplocos Paniculata has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties. It is used to treat skin disorders, diarrhea, dysentery, and respiratory problems.
Q: Is Symplocos Paniculata a fast-growing plant?
A: No, Symplocos Paniculata is a slow-growing plant.
Q: Can Symplocos Paniculata tolerate full sun?
A: Yes, Symplocos Paniculata can tolerate full sun but prefers partial shade.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Symplocos Paniculata?
A: Symplocos Paniculata can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Symplocos Racemosa
- Symplocos Cochinensis
- Symplocos Tinctoria
- Symplocos Crataegoides
References
- Indian Medicinal Plants by C.P. Khare
- https://www.plantsguru.com/lodhra-symplocos-paniculata
- https://www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Lodhra.html
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/lodhra-shrub/lodhra-shrub-care.htm
