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Description
Toona Ciliata, also known as the Mahogany of the Forest, is an Asian tree species that belongs to the family Meliaceae. It is native to China, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, the Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. The tree can grow up to 40 meters tall and has a straight trunk that can reach up to 100 cm in diameter. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color, and the leaves are deciduous and pinnate, with 10-30 leaflets that are lanceolate in shape and dark green in color.The tree produces small, white or yellowish flowers that are fragrant and appear in large clusters in the spring. The fruits are small, round, and green when young, turning reddish-brown when ripe. They contain small, winged seeds that are dispersed by wind.The tree is valued for its timber, which is reddish-brown in color and has a fine texture and straight grain. It is used for furniture, flooring, and construction. The leaves are also edible and are used in various Asian cuisines, such as stir-fries and soups.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Toona |
Appearance
Toona Ciliata is a large, deciduous tree with a rounded or conical crown. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color, and the leaves are pinnate, with 10-30 leaflets that are lanceolate in shape and dark green in color. The tree produces small, white or yellowish flowers that are fragrant and appear in large clusters in the spring. The fruits are small, round, and green when young, turning reddish-brown when ripe. They contain small, winged seeds that are dispersed by wind.
Care Guide
Toona Ciliata is a hardy tree that requires little care once established. However, here are some tips to help ensure optimal growth:- Water: The tree prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Water deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and early summer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall, as this can encourage new growth that may be damaged by frost.- Soil: The tree prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Amend heavy clay soil with organic matter to improve drainage.- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Toona Ciliata is hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Toona Ciliata is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to the following:- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes circular spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide if necessary.- Scale insects: These small, sap-sucking insects can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Treat with an insecticidal soap or oil.- Caterpillars: These larvae can defoliate the tree. Handpick and destroy them or treat with Bacillus thuringiensis.
Habitat
Toona Ciliata is native to China, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, the Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, hillsides, and riverbanks. The tree prefers well-drained soil and moderate rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Toona Ciliata a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, Toona Ciliata is a fast-growing tree that can grow up to 1 meter per year under optimal conditions.
Q: Can Toona Ciliata tolerate drought?
A: No, Toona Ciliata prefers moderate watering and may suffer from drought stress if not watered regularly.
Q: Is Toona Ciliata a good shade tree?
A: Yes, Toona Ciliata can provide good shade due to its large size and dense foliage.
Q: Can Toona Ciliata be grown in containers?
A: No, Toona Ciliata is a large tree that requires a lot of space to grow and is not suitable for container gardening.
Related Plants
– Toona Sinensis- Toona Sureni- Swietenia Macrophylla- Cedrela Odorata- Melia Azedarach
References
– “Toona Ciliata.” Flora of China. Missouri Botanical Garden. Web. 20 May 2021.- “Toona Ciliata.” Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Web. 20 May 2021.- “Toona Ciliata.” World Agroforestry Centre. Web. 20 May 2021.- “Toona Ciliata.” Useful Tropical Plants. Web. 20 May 2021.
