Contents
Description
Gymnosporia Tenuispina is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the Celastraceae family. It is native to Africa and can be found in various countries, including South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. The plant is also known as the “Spiny-leaved Thorn” or “Bastard Spike Thorn.” It can grow up to 3 meters tall and has a dense, bushy growth habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Celastrales |
| Family | Celastraceae |
| Genus | Gymnosporia |
Appearance
The leaves of Gymnosporia Tenuispina are narrow and elongated, with a spiny tip. They are a shiny green color and grow in an alternate pattern along the branches. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are greenish-yellow in color. The fruit is a small, red or yellow capsule that contains one or two seeds. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown and becomes rough and fissured as the plant ages.
Care Guide
Gymnosporia Tenuispina prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought conditions once established. Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months. Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer. The plant can be propagated by seed or cuttings.
Water
Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months. Allow the soil to dry out between watering.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer in early spring before new growth starts.
Soil
Gymnosporia Tenuispina prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Gymnosporia Tenuispina is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gymnosporia Tenuispina is not known to be susceptible to any major pests or diseases. However, the plant may be affected by scale insects, spider mites, or mealybugs. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control these pests.
Habitat
Gymnosporia Tenuispina is native to Africa and can be found in various countries, including South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. The plant grows in a range of habitats, including savannas, grasslands, and rocky hillsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Gymnosporia Tenuispina drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, once established, the plant can tolerate drought conditions.
Q: Can Gymnosporia Tenuispina be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container but may need to be repotted every few years.
Q: How often should Gymnosporia Tenuispina be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How tall can Gymnosporia Tenuispina grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 3 meters tall.
Related Plants
- Gymnosporia buxifolia
- Gymnosporia heterophylla
- Gymnosporia monticola
- Gymnosporia senegalensis
References
- “Gymnosporia tenuispina.” PlantZAfrica, 2018, http://pza.sanbi.org/gymnosporia-tenuispina.
- “Gymnosporia tenuispina.” The Plant List, 2013, http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2839118.
- “Gymnosporia tenuispina.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, 2021, http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=83418.
