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Description
Gymnosporia Senegalensis, also known as “African Buckthorn,” is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Celastraceae family. It is native to dry, wooded savannahs and scrublands in Africa, including Senegal, Sudan, Ethiopia, and Tanzania. The plant is characterized by its thorny, woody stems and small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in the spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Celastrales |
| Family | Celastraceae |
| Genus | Gymnosporia |
| Species | Senegalensis |
Appearance
Gymnosporia Senegalensis typically grows up to 4-6 meters tall and has a rounded or spreading crown. Its leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate to elliptic in shape, with a glossy, dark green color on the upper surface and a paler, dull color on the underside. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, with five petals and numerous stamens. The fruit is a small, spherical drupe that turns from green to red or black when mature.
Care Guide
Gymnosporia Senegalensis is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure, but can tolerate some shade. The plant should be watered regularly during the growing season, but allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilization should be done once a year in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gymnosporia Senegalensis is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can occasionally be affected by spider mites, scale insects, or leaf spot. To prevent these issues, keep the plant well-watered and fertilized, and prune any damaged or diseased branches.
Habitat
Gymnosporia Senegalensis is native to dry, wooded savannahs and scrublands in Africa, including Senegal, Sudan, Ethiopia, and Tanzania. It is commonly found in rocky or sandy soils, and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Gymnosporia Senegalensis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Gymnosporia Senegalensis can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Does Gymnosporia Senegalensis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Gymnosporia Senegalensis is a valuable food source for birds and other wildlife.
Q: How often should Gymnosporia Senegalensis be pruned?
A: Gymnosporia Senegalensis can be pruned once a year in the winter to maintain its shape and promote new growth.
Q: Is Gymnosporia Senegalensis poisonous?
A: No, Gymnosporia Senegalensis is not toxic to humans or animals.
Related Plants
- Gymnosporia buxifolia
- Gymnosporia eminii
- Gymnosporia heterophylla
- Gymnosporia montana
- Gymnosporia spinosa
References
- “Gymnosporia senegalensis.” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 14 Jul. 2021.
- “Gymnosporia senegalensis.” World Agroforestry Centre. CGIAR, n.d. Web. 14 Jul. 2021.
- “Gymnosporia senegalensis.” Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, n.d. Web. 14 Jul. 2021.
