Contents
Taxonomic Information
Domain: Eukarya
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Angiosperms
Class: Eudicots
Order: Gentianales
Family: Rubiaceae
Genus: Guettarda
Description
Guettarda Elliptica is a small tree or shrub that grows up to 5 meters tall. It is native to tropical regions of the Americas, including the Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America. The plant has glossy leaves that are elliptical or oblong in shape, with a length of 5 to 18 centimeters and a width of 2 to 8 centimeters. The leaves are dark green on the upper surface and lighter green on the lower surface. The plant produces small white flowers that are 5-petaled and grow in clusters. The fruit of Guettarda Elliptica is a small, round, fleshy drupe that turns black when ripe. The plant is known for its medicinal properties and is used to treat a variety of ailments.
Appearance
Guettarda Elliptica has a dense, rounded crown and a short trunk. The bark is gray and smooth, with shallow grooves and fissures. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs along the stems and have short petioles. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, with a diameter of about 5 millimeters. The fruit is a small, round, fleshy drupe that is about 1 centimeter in diameter. The plant blooms throughout the year, with peak flowering occurring in the summer months.
Care Guide
Guettarda Elliptica requires moderate watering, with the soil being kept moist but not waterlogged. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2 to 3 months during the growing season. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of temperatures, with a hardiness zone of 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Guettarda Elliptica is prone to pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot. To prevent these diseases, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
Guettarda Elliptica is found in tropical regions of the Americas, including the Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America. The plant grows in a variety of habitats, including coastal areas, rainforests, and savannas. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures, with a hardiness zone of 9 to 11.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Guettarda Elliptica a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Guettarda Elliptica is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, cough, and diarrhea. Q: What is the hardiness zone of Guettarda Elliptica?
A: Guettarda Elliptica is hardy in zones 9 to 11. Q: How often should I fertilize Guettarda Elliptica?
A: Fertilize the plant every 2 to 3 months during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Q: What are the common pests and diseases of Guettarda Elliptica?
A: Guettarda Elliptica is prone to pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects, and is susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot.
Related Plants
- Guettarda macrosperma
- Guettarda viburnoides
- Guettarda poasana
- Guettarda scabra
References
- “Guettarda Elliptica.” PlantNET, plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Guettarda~elliptica.
- “Guettarda Elliptica.” World Agroforestry, 30 Mar. 2021, worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/speciesprofile.php?Spid=18054.
- “Guettarda Elliptica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d853.
