Contents
Description
Tapiscia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Staphyleaceae. There are only two species in this genus, Tapiscia sinensis and Tapiscia pallida. Tapiscia sinensis is native to China, while Tapiscia pallida is found in Japan. These plants are deciduous shrubs or small trees that can grow up to 20 feet tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Crossosomatales |
| Family | Staphyleaceae |
| Genus | Tapiscia |
Appearance
Tapiscia plants have alternate, simple leaves that are 5-10 cm long and 3-5 cm wide. The leaves are ovate or elliptic with serrated margins. The flowers are small, greenish-white, and arranged in panicles. The fruit is a woody capsule that splits open to release seeds. The bark of Tapiscia sinensis is grayish-brown and smooth, while the bark of Tapiscia pallida is grayish-white and peels off in thin strips. The wood of these plants is hard and durable.
Care Guide
Tapiscia plants prefer moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. They are hardy in USDA zones 6-9. Water the plants regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilize the plants in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the plants in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged wood.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tapiscia plants are relatively pest and disease free. However, they may be susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildew. These issues can be prevented by providing adequate air circulation around the plants and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Tapiscia sinensis is native to central and western China, where it grows in forests and along streams. Tapiscia pallida is native to Japan, where it grows in mountain forests.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Tapiscia in a container?
A: It is possible to grow Tapiscia in a container, but you will need to provide adequate space for the roots to grow and ensure that the soil remains moist.
Q: Do Tapiscia plants attract wildlife?
A: Tapiscia plants do not attract wildlife, as they are not known to produce fruit that is edible for animals.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Tapiscia plant?
A: You should fertilize your Tapiscia plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How much sunlight does Tapiscia require?
A: Tapiscia plants prefer full sun to partial shade.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Staphyleaceae family include:
- Staphylea
- Tetrameles
- Turpinia
- Zanthoxylum
References
- “Tapiscia.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
- “Tapiscia.” Flora of China, Missouri Botanical Garden and Harvard University Herbaria.
- “Staphyleaceae.” The Plant List, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden.
