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Description
Gymnosporia Buxifolia, also known as the African Boxthorn or the Common Spike Thorn, is an evergreen shrub that is native to Africa. It belongs to the Celastraceae family and can grow up to 4 meters tall. The shrub has a dense, thorny foliage and produces small, white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. In fall, the shrub produces small red berries that can last throughout the winter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Celastales |
| Family | Celastraceae |
| Genus | Gymnosporia |
Appearance
Gymnosporia Buxifolia has a dense foliage of small, glossy green leaves that are ovate to oblong in shape. The leaves are about 1-3 centimeters long and are arranged alternately on the stems. The shrub is covered in sharp spines that can grow up to 2 centimeters long. The flowers are small and white, about 3-4 millimeters in diameter. The shrub produces small red berries that are about 5 millimeters in diameter.
Care Guide
Gymnosporia Buxifolia is a hardy shrub that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your shrub healthy:- Water: Water the shrub deeply once a week. The shrub can tolerate drought but prefers moist soil.- Fertilization: Fertilize the shrub once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The shrub prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types.- Sunlight: The shrub prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Gymnosporia Buxifolia is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gymnosporia Buxifolia is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, here are some that you should watch out for:- Spider Mites: These pests can cause damage to the leaves and can be controlled with insecticidal soap.- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Remove infected leaves and spray the shrub with a fungicide.- Scale Insects: These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
Gymnosporia Buxifolia is native to Africa and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, savannas, and scrublands. The shrub can tolerate a wide range of soil types and can grow in areas with low rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Gymnosporia Buxifolia toxic?
A: Yes, the shrub is toxic and should not be ingested.
Q: How often should I prune my Gymnosporia Buxifolia?
A: Prune the shrub in late winter to early spring to shape it and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: Can Gymnosporia Buxifolia be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the shrub can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with adequate sunlight and water.
Q: How long does it take for Gymnosporia Buxifolia to produce berries?
A: The shrub produces small red berries in fall, about 6-8 months after flowering.
Related Plants
– Gymnosporia senegalensis- Gymnosporia buchananii- Gymnosporia heterophylla- Gymnosporia monticola
References
– “Gymnosporia Buxifolia.” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 15 Nov. 2021.- “Gymnosporia Buxifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 15 Nov. 2021.- “Gymnosporia Buxifolia.” The Plant List. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 15 Nov. 2021.
