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Description
Allophylus Natalensis, also known as the Natal False Currant, is a shrub or small tree that belongs to the Sapindaceae family. This plant is native to South Africa and is commonly found in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape. The Allophylus Natalensis plant can grow up to 5 meters tall and has a rounded canopy. It has a smooth bark that is gray or light brown in color. The leaves are alternate, compound, and measure between 7 and 13 cm long. The flowers are small, yellow-green, and appear in clusters. The fruit is a small, round, red or black berry that is edible but not commonly consumed by humans.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Allophylus |
Appearance
The Allophylus Natalensis plant has a dense and rounded canopy that is made up of compound leaves. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a pointed tip and serrated edges. The shrub or small tree has a smooth bark that is gray or light brown in color. The flowers are small, yellow-green, and appear in clusters. The fruit is a small, round, red or black berry that is edible but not commonly consumed by humans. The berries are often eaten by birds, which helps to spread the seeds.
Care Guide
The Allophylus Natalensis plant is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, especially during the growing season.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to promote growth and flowering.
- Soil: The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant can tolerate full sun to partial shade, but prefers a location with partial shade during the hottest part of the day.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Allophylus Natalensis plant is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
The Allophylus Natalensis plant is native to South Africa and is commonly found in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and coastal bush. The plant is well-suited to warm and humid conditions and can tolerate moderate drought once established.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Allophylus Natalensis plant poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous, but the berries are not commonly consumed by humans.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Allophylus Natalensis plant?
A: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to promote growth and flowering.
Q: Can the Allophylus Natalensis plant tolerate full sun?
A: Yes, the plant can tolerate full sun to partial shade, but prefers a location with partial shade during the hottest part of the day.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Allophylus Natalensis?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Allophylus abyssinicus
- Allophylus africanus
- Allophylus edulis
- Allophylus natalitius
References
- “Allophylus natalensis.” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 20 Nov. 2021.
- “Allophylus Natalensis.” The Plant List. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 20 Nov. 2021.
- “Allophylus Natalensis.” World Flora Online. The World Flora Online Consortium, n.d. Web. 20 Nov. 2021.
