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Description
Nestegis Montana, also known as mountain nectar, is a small tree belonging to the Oleaceae family. This evergreen plant is native to New Zealand and grows up to 8 meters tall. It is popularly grown for its beautiful foliage, which consists of glossy green leaves that are elliptical in shape with a pointed tip. The leaves are around 2-6 cm long and 1-3 cm wide. The tree produces small, white flowers during spring and summer, which are followed by small, black fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Nestegis |
Appearance
Nestegis Montana has a compact and upright growth habit. Its leaves are glossy green and elliptical in shape with a pointed tip. They are around 2-6 cm long and 1-3 cm wide. The tree produces small, white flowers during spring and summer, which are followed by small, black fruits. The bark of the tree is dark brown and smooth when young, but it becomes rough and fissured as the tree matures.
Care Guide
Nestegis Montana requires moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant:
- Water: Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but not water-logged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Grow in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Nestegis Montana is hardy in zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nestegis Montana is relatively disease and pest-resistant. However, it can be affected by scale insects, which can be treated with a horticultural oil spray. Other pests that may infest this plant include mealybugs and spider mites. The tree is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Nestegis Montana is native to New Zealand, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, shrublands, and rocky slopes. It is commonly grown in gardens and parks as an ornamental tree.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Nestegis Montana a fast-growing tree?
A: No, Nestegis Montana is a slow-growing tree.
Q: Can Nestegis Montana tolerate drought?
A: No, Nestegis Montana requires regular watering and cannot tolerate drought.
Q: Does Nestegis Montana attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the tree’s flowers attract bees and other pollinators, while its fruits are eaten by birds.
Q: How tall can Nestegis Montana grow?
A: Nestegis Montana can grow up to 8 meters tall.
Related Plants
- Nestegis cunninghamii
- Nestegis lanceolata
- Nestegis sandwicensis
- Nestegis montana var. montana
References
- “Nestegis Montana (Mountain Nectar).” Trees and Shrubs Online, www.treesandshrubsonline.org/articles/nestegis/nestegis-montana/. Accessed 15 Nov. 2021.
- “Nestegis Montana.” NZ Plant Conservation Network, www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/nestegis-montana/. Accessed 15 Nov. 2021.
