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Description
Discaria Toumatou, also known as the matagouri or wild Irishman, is a shrub that is native to New Zealand. This plant is characterized by its tangled, spiny branches that can grow up to 3 meters in height. The leaves are small, narrow, and covered in fine hairs. In summer, the shrub produces small, yellow-green flowers that are followed by small, reddish-brown berries in autumn. Discaria Toumatou is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and harsh weather conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Discaria |
Appearance
Discaria Toumatou is a spiny shrub that can grow up to 3 meters in height. The leaves are small, narrow, and covered in fine hairs. The branches are tangled and spiny, and the bark is rough and scaly. In summer, the shrub produces small, yellow-green flowers that are followed by small, reddish-brown berries in autumn. The berries are edible but are not commonly consumed by humans due to their bitter taste.
Care Guide
Discaria Toumatou is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and harsh weather conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Discaria Toumatou:
- Water: Discaria Toumatou is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Discaria Toumatou does not require fertilization.
- Soil: Discaria Toumatou prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate sandy or gravelly soil.
- Sunlight: Discaria Toumatou prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Discaria Toumatou is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Discaria Toumatou is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to wilt. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Scale insects: These insects attach themselves to the stems and leaves and suck the sap from the plant. Use insecticidal soap to control scale insects.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can occur if the soil is too wet. Make sure the soil is well-draining and do not over-water the plant.
Habitat
Discaria Toumatou is native to New Zealand and is commonly found in coastal areas, gravel banks, and dry, rocky hillsides. It can also be found in Australia and South America.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Discaria Toumatou a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Discaria Toumatou can be used in landscaping as a hedge or a specimen plant.
Q: Can Discaria Toumatou be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Discaria Toumatou can be grown in containers but will require frequent watering.
Q: Are the berries of Discaria Toumatou edible?
A: Yes, the berries of Discaria Toumatou are edible but are not commonly consumed by humans due to their bitter taste.
Q: How often should I prune my Discaria Toumatou?
A: Prune your Discaria Toumatou in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also prune for shape and size.
Related Plants
- Discaria nitida
- Discaria pubescens
- Discaria serratifolia
References
- “Discaria Toumatou.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network, n.d., www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/discaria-toumatou/.
- “Discaria Toumatou.” Plants for a Future, n.d., www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Discaria+toumatou.
- “Discaria Toumatou.” World Agroforestry Centre, n.d., agroforestry.org/treedb2/speciesprofile.php?Spid=190.
