Myrsine Africana
Contents
Description
Myrsine Africana, also known as African boxwood or Cape myrtle, is a popular plant in Africa for its medicinal properties and use in traditional medicine. It is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the Myrsinaceae family. The plant is native to Africa, specifically in the tropical and subtropical regions of the continent, and can grow up to 5 meters in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Myrsinaceae |
| Genus | Myrsine |
Appearance
The leaves of Myrsine Africana are glossy and dark green, with a waxy texture. The plant produces small, white or yellowish flowers that bloom in clusters during the spring and summer months. The fruit of the plant is a small, black berry that is edible but not commonly consumed. The bark of the plant is grayish-brown and smooth, and the branches are thin and flexible.
Care Guide
Myrsine Africana is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering, although it can tolerate dry periods. The plant can grow in full sun or partial shade, but it prefers a partially shaded area. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Myrsine Africana is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It may also attract scale insects, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
Myrsine Africana is native to Africa and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and savannas. It is a common plant in traditional African medicine, where it is used to treat a variety of ailments, including stomach disorders, respiratory infections, and skin conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Myrsine Africana be grown as a houseplant?
A: While Myrsine Africana can be grown indoors, it prefers to be grown outdoors in a partially shaded area.
Q: Is Myrsine Africana toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that Myrsine Africana is toxic to pets, but it is always best to keep plants out of reach of pets and children.
Q: How often should Myrsine Africana be fertilized?
A: Myrsine Africana only needs to be fertilized once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: Can Myrsine Africana be pruned?
A: Yes, Myrsine Africana can be pruned to maintain its shape and size, but it is best to do so in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Myrsine Melanophloeos
- Myrsine Africana var. Capensis
- Myrsine Retusa
- Myrsine Floribunda
References
- “Myrsine Africana.” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 16 Mar. 2021. <https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/myrsineafrica.htm>.
- Heywood, Vernon H., ed. Flowering Plants of the World. New York: Oxford UP, 1993. Print.
- “Myrsine Africana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 16 Mar. 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c660>.
