Overview
Dracontomelon dao is a plant with a bushy habit in the genus Dracontomelon, part of the Anacardiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Dracontomelon dao grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include architectural, cottage and informal garden, banks and slopes and flower borders and beds.
About
Dracontomelon dao, commonly known as dao or New Guinea walnut, is a bushy deciduous plant from the Anacardiaceae family. It thrives in full sun with a sheltered aspect, suitable for south, west, east, or north-facing positions. Preferring fertile, well-drained loam soil with a neutral pH, it is hardy to UK zone H3. This cultivar is ideal for architectural features, cottage and informal gardens, banks and slopes, as well as flower borders and beds. Interest in the plant is particularly notable during spring and summer, and it can be propagated by separating offsets in autumn or spring.
About the genus
Dracontomelon is a genus of flowering plants in the family Anacardiaceae, growing mostly in Southeast Asia and the Pacific islands. The fruit may be used in local cuisine, especially as a souring agent, including in Vietnam, where it is known as sấu.
Wikipedia contributors, "Dracontomelon", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Dracontomelon
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Dracontomelon
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing, North-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
Dracontomelon dao size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Cottage and informal garden, Banks and slopes, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Dracontomelon dao
- Propagation
- Separate offsets in autumn or spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Dracontomelon dao?
Dracontomelon dao prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Dracontomelon dao need?
Dracontomelon dao grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Dracontomelon dao hardy in the UK?
Dracontomelon dao has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.
How do I propagate Dracontomelon dao?
Separate offsets in autumn or spring.
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