Contents
Description
Turraea is a genus of flowering plants from the family Meliaceae. It comprises around 160 species of trees and shrubs that are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia. The plants have alternate, simple leaves and produce small, white, or yellow flowers that are often fragrant. The fruits are usually capsules or drupes that contain one or more seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Turraea |
Appearance
The appearance of Turraea plants varies depending on the species. They can grow as small shrubs or large trees that can reach up to 30 meters in height. The leaves are typically lanceolate, ovate, or elliptical in shape and can be hairy or smooth. The flowers are small, white, or yellow and can be clustered or solitary. The fruits are usually capsules or drupes that contain one or more seeds.
Care Guide
Turraea plants are relatively easy to care for, but they require specific conditions to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your Turraea plant:- Water: Turraea plants require regular watering, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during the dormant season.- Fertilization: Fertilize your Turraea plant during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the package for the correct amount and frequency of application.- Soil: Turraea plants prefer well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid soils that are heavy or compacted.- Sunlight: Turraea plants prefer full sun or partial shade. They can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well.- Hardiness Zones: Turraea plants are tropical and subtropical and require warm temperatures to grow. They are typically hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Turraea plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to certain problems, including:- Anthracnose: a fungal disease that causes leaf spots and cankers on branches.- Scale insects: small, sap-sucking insects that can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves.- Spider mites: tiny arachnids that can cause yellowing and stippling of leaves.To prevent these problems, make sure your Turraea plant is well-watered and fertilized. Remove any infected or infested plant material promptly.
Habitat
Turraea plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia. They grow in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, woodlands, and savannas. Some species are cultivated as ornamental plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Turraea plants grow in cold climates?
A: No, Turraea plants are tropical and subtropical and require warm temperatures to grow.
Q: How often should I water my Turraea plant?
A: Water your Turraea plant regularly during the growing season, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during the dormant season.
Q: What kind of soil do Turraea plants prefer?
A: Turraea plants prefer well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid soils that are heavy or compacted.
Q: Are Turraea plants resistant to pests and diseases?
A: Turraea plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be susceptible to anthracnose, scale insects, and spider mites.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Turraea:- Azadirachta indica (Neem)- Cedrela odorata (Spanish cedar)- Swietenia mahagoni (Mahogany)- Trichilia emetica (Natal mahogany)
References
– “Turraea.” World Plants: Synonymic Checklists of the Vascular Plants of the World. Accessed September 16, 2021. http://worldplants.webarchiv.kit.edu/D/index.php?name=Turraea.- “Turraea.” The Plant List. Accessed September 16, 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Meliaceae/Turraea/.
