Contents
Description
Walsura is a genus of plants belonging to the Meliaceae family. It is native to tropical regions of South America, and includes about 10 species of trees and shrubs. The leaves of Walsura are typically pinnate, with alternate leaflets that are ovate or lanceolate in shape. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and the fruit is a capsule that contains several seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Walsura |
Appearance
Walsura trees and shrubs have a distinctive appearance, with pinnate leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers. The leaves are typically ovate or lanceolate in shape, with a glossy green color. The bark of the tree is smooth and grayish-brown in color, and the fruit is a capsule that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Walsura plants require regular care in order to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your Walsura plant:
- Water: Walsura plants prefer consistently moist soil, but they can tolerate short periods of drought. Water your plant regularly, making sure the soil is never allowed to dry out completely.
- Fertilization: Feed your Walsura plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for best results.
- Soil: Walsura plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with compost or other organic material to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Walsura plants prefer full sun to partial shade. If your plant is growing in a particularly hot or sunny location, provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf burn.
- Hardiness Zones: Walsura plants are typically hardy in USDA zones 9-11, but may be grown as annuals in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Walsura plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but may occasionally be affected by common garden pests such as aphids, mealybugs, or spider mites. To prevent these pests from taking hold, keep your plant healthy by providing adequate water, fertilizer, and sunlight. If you do notice signs of pest infestation, treat with an insecticidal soap or other organic pest control product.
Habitat
Walsura plants are native to tropical regions of South America, and are typically found growing in rainforests or other moist, shaded environments. They prefer warm, humid climates, and are not well-suited to dry or arid conditions. In their native habitat, Walsura plants play an important role in the ecosystem, providing food and habitat for a variety of animals and insects.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Walsura plants be grown indoors?
A: While Walsura plants are typically grown outdoors in warm, humid climates, they may be grown indoors in a bright location with plenty of indirect sunlight.
Q: Are Walsura plants toxic to pets?
A: There is limited information available on the toxicity of Walsura plants to pets, but it is generally recommended to keep all plants out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Walsura plant?
A: Walsura plants should be fertilized once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for best results.
Q: How tall do Walsura trees typically grow?
A: The height of Walsura trees can vary depending on the species, but they typically range from 10-30 feet tall.
Related Plants
- Melia azedarach (Chinaberry)
- Toona sinensis (Chinese Mahogany)
- Cedrela odorata (Spanish Cedar)
References
- “Walsura.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
- “Walsura.” The Plant List, Version 1.1, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Walsura.” Encyclopedia of Life, eol.org.
