Contents
Description
Elaeodendron Melanocarpum, also known as the Indian olive or black olive tree, is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree native to India, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar. It belongs to the family Celastraceae and is widely used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Celastrales |
| Family | Celastraceae |
| Genus | Elaeodendron |
Appearance
The Indian olive tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a wide-spreading crown. The leaves are glossy, leathery, and dark green in color. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, and the fruit is a black, fleshy drupe, about 1 cm in diameter. The bark is dark brown and rough, with deep fissures.
Care Guide
The Indian olive tree prefers a well-draining soil and requires moderate watering. It can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sun. Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. It is hardy to USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Indian olive tree is susceptible to scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites. It is also prone to root rot and fungal diseases. Regular inspection and treatment with appropriate pesticides and fungicides can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
The Indian olive tree is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of India, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, scrublands, and rocky hillsides.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Elaeodendron Melanocarpum?
A: The bark, leaves, and fruits of the Indian olive tree are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, cough, diarrhea, and skin infections.
Q: Is the Indian olive tree a fast-growing tree?
A: No, the Indian olive tree is a slow-growing tree.
Q: Can the Indian olive tree be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Indian olive tree can be grown in containers, but it requires regular pruning to keep its size manageable.
Q: Is the Indian olive tree an invasive species?
A: No, the Indian olive tree is not considered an invasive species.
Related Plants
- Elaeodendron glaucum
- Elaeodendron orientale
- Elaeodendron transvaalense
References
- “Elaeodendron Melanocarpum.” Floriculture and Landscaping. ICAR e-Course, 2018.
- “Elaeodendron Melanocarpum.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science, n.d.
- “Elaeodendron Melanocarpum.” Tropical Plants Database. Ken Fern, n.d.
