Contents
1. Description
Agathosma Ovata, also known as the “Oval Buchu,” is a shrub species that belongs to the Rutaceae family. It is native to the Western Cape province of South Africa and is commonly found in fynbos vegetation. The plant is well-known for its aromatic leaves, which are used in traditional medicines and as a flavoring agent in various foods and drinks.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Agathosma |
| Species | Ovata |
3. Appearance
The Agathosma Ovata shrub can grow up to 2 meters tall and 2 meters wide. It has small, oval-shaped leaves that are about 1-2 cm long and 0.5-1 cm wide. The leaves are glossy and dark green in color, with a smooth texture. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that are about 5 mm in diameter and bloom in the spring and early summer. The flowers are followed by small, woody capsules that contain the plant’s seeds.
4. Care Guide
Water: Agathosma Ovata prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly but not overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Soil: Agathosma Ovata prefers well-draining, sandy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade to grow properly.
Hardiness Zones: Agathosma Ovata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
The Agathosma Ovata shrub is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
- Spider mites: These pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow and brown. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
- Aphids: These pests can cause the leaves to curl and distort. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can lead to the plant’s death. Ensure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant.
6. Habitat
Agathosma Ovata is native to the Western Cape province of South Africa and is commonly found in fynbos vegetation. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
7. Question and Answer
Q: Can Agathosma Ovata be grown indoors?
A: While Agathosma Ovata can be grown in containers, it prefers to be planted outdoors in well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Agathosma Ovata plant?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Q: How often should I water my Agathosma Ovata plant?
A: Water the plant regularly but do not overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
Q: Is Agathosma Ovata toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that Agathosma Ovata is toxic to pets. However, it is always recommended to keep pets away from plants to avoid any risk of ingestion.
9. Related Plants
- Agathosma Capensis
- Agathosma Betulina
- Agathosma Crenulata
- Agathosma Discolor
10. References
- “Agathosma Ovata.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/agathosmovata.htm.
- “Agathosma Ovata.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=513418.
- “Agathosma Ovata.” The Plant List, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden, www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2627275.
