Xylomelum

Description

Xylomelum is a genus of flowering plants in the Proteaceae family, native to Australia. It includes six species of evergreen trees and shrubs that can grow up to 30 meters tall. The name Xylomelum is derived from the Greek words “xylon” meaning wood and “melos” meaning apple, referring to the hard woody fruit that resembles an apple.The trees have a single trunk with rough, scaly bark and a dense canopy of glossy, dark green leaves that are leathery in texture. The flowers are usually yellow or creamy-white and are arranged in clusters or spikes. The fruit is a woody capsule that splits open when ripe to release the seeds.

Taxonomic Information

Domain: Eukaryota

Kingdom: Plantae

Phylum: Tracheophyta

Class: Magnoliopsida

Order: Proteales

Family: Proteaceae

Genus: Xylomelum

Appearance

Xylomelum trees have a striking appearance with their glossy, dark green leaves and clusters of yellow or creamy-white flowers. The trees can grow up to 30 meters tall and have a single trunk with rough, scaly bark. The fruit is a woody capsule that splits open when ripe to reveal the seeds. The hard woody fruit resembles an apple and can be up to 10 centimeters in diameter.

Care Guide

Water: Xylomelum trees require moderate watering, especially during the summer months. It is important to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilization: Fertilize Xylomelum trees in spring and summer with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.

Soil: Xylomelum trees prefer well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It is important to avoid planting them in heavy clay soils.

Sunlight: Xylomelum trees prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well.

Hardiness Zones: Xylomelum trees are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Xylomelum trees are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent this.

Habitat

Xylomelum trees are native to Australia and are found in a variety of habitats including forests, woodlands, and heathlands. They prefer well-draining soils and can tolerate drought conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Xylomelum trees be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Xylomelum trees can be grown in containers as long as they are provided with adequate space and well-draining soil.

Q: How often should Xylomelum trees be pruned?

A: Xylomelum trees should be pruned in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. They do not require regular pruning.

Q: Do Xylomelum trees attract wildlife?

A: Yes, Xylomelum trees are known to attract birds and insects with their flowers and fruit.

Q: Are Xylomelum trees endangered?

A: No, Xylomelum trees are not currently listed as endangered.

Related Plants

• Banksia
• Grevillea
• Protea
• Leucadendron

References

• “Xylomelum.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. Accessed 10 August 2021. https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/interns-2002/xylomelum-phyllis-rohrer.html.
• “Xylomelum.” PlantNet. Accessed 10 August 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=gn&name=Xylomelum.
• “Xylomelum.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Accessed 10 August 2021. http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=283179.