Ochrosia Elliptica
Contents
Description
Ochrosia Elliptica is an evergreen shrub or small tree that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. The plant is also known by various other common names such as Green Pagoda, Yellow-wood, and Pale Yellow-wood. The plant produces small, fragrant, white flowers with yellow centers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Ochrosia |
Appearance
The Ochrosia Elliptica plant grows up to 20 feet tall and has a spread of up to 10 feet. It has a dense, rounded crown and a greyish-brown bark. The leaves of the plant are elliptical or oblong in shape, 2 to 6 inches long, and 0.8 to 2 inches wide. The upper surface of the leaves is glossy green, while the lower surface is pale green. The plant produces small, fragrant, white flowers with yellow centers, which are followed by oval-shaped fruits that turn from green to yellow when ripe.
Care Guide
Ochrosia Elliptica requires moderate care to grow and thrive. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply, but do not allow the soil to become waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once every six months.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade to grow and thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: Ochrosia Elliptica is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ochrosia Elliptica is susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common ones:
- Scale insects: These pests suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and stunted growth. Use a horticultural oil to control them.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil. The plant’s roots become mushy and eventually die. Avoid overwatering and improve soil drainage to prevent root rot.
- Leaf spot: This disease is characterized by brown spots on the plant’s leaves. It is caused by a fungal infection and can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Ochrosia Elliptica is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. It grows in a variety of habitats such as rainforests, open woodlands, and coastal areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and requires full sun to partial shade to grow and thrive.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the average height of an Ochrosia Elliptica plant?
A: The plant can grow up to 20 feet tall.
Q: What kind of soil does Ochrosia Elliptica prefer?
A: The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
Q: Is Ochrosia Elliptica a drought-tolerant plant?
A: The plant is not drought-tolerant and requires regular watering.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Ochrosia Elliptica?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.
Related Plants
- Ochrosia Borbonica
- Ochrosia Californica
- Ochrosia Nakaiana
References
- “Ochrosia Elliptica.” Floridata. Accessed 29 June 2021. https://floridata.com/Plants/Apocynaceae/Ochrosia+elliptica/1033
- “Ochrosia Elliptica.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 29 June 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FP/FP45700.pdf
- “Ochrosia Elliptica.” Pacific Island Ecosystems at Risk. Accessed 29 June 2021. https://www.hear.org/pier/species/ochrosia_elliptica.htm
