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Description
Xanthostemon is a genus of flowering plants in the family Myrtaceae, native to Australia and the Pacific Islands. The name “Xanthostemon” is derived from the Greek words “xanthos,” meaning yellow, and “stemon,” meaning stamen, referring to the yellow stamens of the flowers. The genus includes approximately 40 species of evergreen trees and shrubs.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Xanthostemon |
Appearance
Xanthostemon has glossy, dark green leaves and produces clusters of small, yellow or white flowers. The flowers have five petals and numerous stamens, giving them a fluffy appearance. The fruit is a woody capsule containing many small seeds. The trees and shrubs can grow up to 10 meters tall and have a dense, bushy habit.
Care Guide
To care for Xanthostemon, provide it with well-draining soil and regular watering. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Xanthostemon prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures down to -5°C. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Xanthostemon is generally pest and disease-free, but can be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can occur if the soil is too wet, so be sure to provide proper drainage.
Habitat
Xanthostemon is native to Australia and the Pacific Islands, where it grows in tropical and subtropical forests. It is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Xanthostemon be grown indoors?
A: Xanthostemon prefers full sun, so it may not thrive indoors unless it is placed in a bright, sunny location.
Q: How often should Xanthostemon be watered?
A: Water Xanthostemon regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Xanthostemon attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Xanthostemon flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Q: How tall can Xanthostemon grow?
A: Xanthostemon can grow up to 10 meters tall.
Related Plants
- Xanthostemon chrysanthus
- Xanthostemon verdugonianus
- Xanthostemon whitei
- Xanthostemon youngii
References
- “Xanthostemon.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 17 Aug. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xanthostemon.
- “Xanthostemon.” Australian Plant Image Index, Australian National Botanic Gardens, 2021, anbg.gov.au/cgi-bin/apni?TAXON_NAME=XANTHOSTEMON.
- “Xanthostemon.” Plants of the World Online, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, 2021, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:32793-1.
