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Description
Dovyalis Hebecarpa, also known as the Ceylon gooseberry or Ketembilla, is a fruit-bearing tree native to Sri Lanka and India. It is a member of the Flacourtiaceae family and can grow up to 10 meters tall. The plant is known for its deliciously tart fruit, which is commonly used in jams, chutneys, and pickles. The fruit is also high in vitamin C, making it a popular ingredient in health supplements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Flacourtiaceae |
| Genus | Dovyalis |
Appearance
The Dovyalis Hebecarpa has a dense, bushy growth habit and can grow up to 10 meters tall. Its leaves are simple, ovate, and glossy green in color. The tree produces small, fragrant, white flowers that eventually give way to green, grape-sized fruit. The fruit turns yellow when ripe and has a tart, acidic flavor.
Care Guide
Dovyalis Hebecarpa is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for your Ceylon gooseberry tree:
- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil, so make sure to water it deeply and infrequently.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9b to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Dovyalis Hebecarpa is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause webbing and yellowing of the leaves. Use a miticide to control them.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots and premature fruit drop. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
The Dovyalis Hebecarpa is native to Sri Lanka and India and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures and humidity levels.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Dovyalis Hebecarpa in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Dovyalis Hebecarpa in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. Make sure to use well-draining soil and water the plant deeply and infrequently.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Dovyalis Hebecarpa?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: When is the best time to harvest Dovyalis Hebecarpa fruit?
A: The fruit is usually harvested when it turns yellow and is slightly soft to the touch.
Q: Is Dovyalis Hebecarpa drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, the plant is drought-tolerant but prefers to be watered deeply and infrequently.
Related Plants
- Dovyalis Caffra
- Dovyalis Zeyheri
- Dovyalis Rhamnoides
- Dovyalis Abyssinica
References
- Flora of Sri Lanka. (n.d.). Dovyalis Hebecarpa. Retrieved from http://www.slflora.com/flora/dovyalis-hebecarpa/
- Gardening Know How. (2021). Ceylon Gooseberry Information: Growing Ceylon Gooseberry Trees. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/gooseberry/ceylon-gooseberry-trees.htm
- Morton, J. F. (1987). Ketembilla. Fruits of Warm Climates. Retrieved from http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/ketembilla.html
