Euonymus chibae, also known by the charming name Hizen Mayumi, is a captivating subtropical evergreen tree native to the warm coastal forests of Shikoku, Kyushu, and Okinawa in Japan, and the Korean Peninsula. It's a member of the Celastraceae or spindle tree family.
Standing tall between 4 and 12 meters, Euonymus chibae boasts a graceful presence. Its young branches are a vibrant green and sport four distinct ridges, adding a touch of texture. The true stars of the show, however, are the leaves.
Euonymus chibae's leaves are a sight to behold. Arranged in opposite pairs along the stems, they boast an oblong-oval shape, typically measuring between 5 and 10 centimeters in length and 2 to 5 centimeters in width. Their color is a rich, verdant green that adds a touch of life to any landscape.
The leaf margins along the upper half are adorned with shallow serrations, like a gentle sawtooth pattern. This adds a touch of visual interest and sets them apart from smooth-edged leaves. As the tree matures, the lower half of the leaf margins may become smooth.
Euonymus chibae isn't just beautiful, it's also significant for conservation efforts. Sadly, it's listed as an endangered species in the Red Data Book of the Ministry of the Environment in Japan. This highlights the importance of protecting this unique tree and its habitat.
Here are some additional interesting facts about Euonymus chibae:
Blooms: From April to June, the tree produces clusters of small, light yellow-green flowers nestled in the leaf axils (the point where the leaf meets the stem). These delicate blooms add a touch of charm to the tree during its flowering season.
Fruit: Following the flowers, the tree produces an orange capsule with a four-lobed, angular shape. Measuring roughly 1 centimeter in diameter, these capsules add another layer of visual interest during the later part of the year.
Habitat: As mentioned before, Euonymus chibae thrives in warm coastal forests. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate some salt spray, making it well-suited to its coastal environment.
Overall, Euonymus chibae is a captivating evergreen tree with stunning leaves and a touch of vulnerability. Its presence adds beauty and ecological value to the landscapes it adorns, making it a worthy addition to any conservation effort.
Ref.:
 |  |
Upvoted! Thank you for supporting witness @jswit.
Downvoting a post can decrease pending rewards and make it less visible. Common reasons:
Submit