Ungnadia

Description

Ungnadia is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the Sapindaceae family. It consists of only one species, Ungnadia speciosa, which is commonly known as Mexican buckeye, Texas buckeye, or coralbean. It is native to the southwestern United States and northeastern Mexico, growing in dry areas, limestone hills, and canyons.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Ungnadia speciosa is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide. Its leaves are compound, with 5-7 leaflets that are dark green and glossy above and paler below. The plant produces clusters of small pink or white flowers in early spring before the leaves appear. The fruit is a leathery capsule that splits open to reveal shiny, dark brown seeds that resemble buckeyes.

Care Guide

Ungnadia speciosa is a tough and adaptable plant that can grow in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:

• Water: Water regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as the plant is susceptible to root rot.
• Fertilization: Fertilize once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers and fruit.
• Soil: Ungnadia speciosa prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate alkaline soil and drought, but it may struggle in heavy clay soil.
• Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade. The plant can tolerate some shade, but it may produce fewer flowers and fruit.
• Hardiness Zones: Ungnadia speciosa is hardy in USDA zones 6-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Ungnadia speciosa is generally pest and disease resistant, but it may be affected by the following:

• Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck sap from the plant and cause distorted growth. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
• Caterpillars: Caterpillars can chew holes in the leaves and defoliate the plant. Handpick them or use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) to control infestations.
• Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-drained soil can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent this.

Habitat

Ungnadia speciosa is native to the southwestern United States and northeastern Mexico, where it grows in dry areas, limestone hills, and canyons. It is often found in riparian areas, where it can tolerate periodic flooding.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Ungnadia speciosa toxic?

A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested. Keep it away from children and pets.

Q: Can Ungnadia speciosa be grown in containers?

A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full size or produce as many flowers and fruit as it would in the ground.

Q: Does Ungnadia speciosa attract wildlife?

A: Yes, the plant’s flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, while the seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals.

Q: How often should I prune Ungnadia speciosa?

A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove dead or damaged branches, and shape the plant as desired. Ungnadia speciosa can tolerate heavy pruning if needed.

Related Plants

• Sapindus saponaria (soapberry)
• Koelreuteria paniculata (goldenrain tree)
• Aesculus pavia (red buckeye)
• Aesculus glabra (Ohio buckeye)

References

• “Ungnadia speciosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 24 May 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286627&isprofile=0&basic=ungnadia>
• “Mexican Buckeye.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 24 May 2021. <https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=UNSP>
• “Ungnadia speciosa.” Texas A&M Forest Service. Accessed 24 May 2021. <https://texastreeid.tamu.edu/content/TreeDetails/?id=113>