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Description
Cordia Dentata, commonly known as the Sebesten Plum, is a flowering shrub that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. This shrub is native to the Caribbean islands and Central America, but it has also been introduced to other parts of the world, including Florida and Hawaii. The Sebesten Plum is a small to medium-sized shrub that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It is known for its attractive foliage and clusters of white flowers that bloom in the summer and fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Cordia |
Appearance
The Sebesten Plum has a dense and rounded growth habit with a spreading canopy. Its leaves are glossy and dark green, and they have a leathery texture. The leaves are oval-shaped and measure between 2 and 6 inches long. The Sebesten Plum produces showy clusters of white flowers that bloom in the summer and fall. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and measure up to 1 inch in diameter. They are followed by small, round, and fleshy fruits that measure up to 1 inch in diameter. The fruits are edible and have a sweet and sour taste.
Care Guide
The Sebesten Plum is a low-maintenance shrub that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this shrub:
Water: The Sebesten Plum prefers well-drained soil that is kept evenly moist. Water the shrub deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil: The Sebesten Plum prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or peat moss to improve drainage and fertility.
Sunlight: The Sebesten Plum prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant the shrub in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: The Sebesten Plum is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11. It can tolerate temperatures down to 30°F, but it may suffer damage if exposed to frost.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sebesten Plum is relatively pest and disease-free, but it may suffer from the following problems:
Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat the shrub with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Sebesten Plum is native to the Caribbean islands and Central America, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including coastal areas, dry forests, and open woodlands. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate salt spray and drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Sebesten Plum a good choice for a small garden?
A: Yes, the Sebesten Plum is a great choice for a small garden. It has a compact growth habit and can be pruned to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Can the Sebesten Plum be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the Sebesten Plum can be grown in a container. Use a well-draining potting mix and water the shrub regularly.
Q: Does the Sebesten Plum attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the Sebesten Plum is a good choice for attracting bees and butterflies. Its showy white flowers are a good source of nectar and pollen.
Q: How often should I prune my Sebesten Plum?
A: Prune your Sebesten Plum once a year in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the shrub.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the Sebesten Plum:
- Cordia boissieri
- Cordia sebestena
- Cordia africana
- Cordia rothii
References
- University of Florida IFAS Extension: Cordia dentata
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Cordia dentata
- Plantz Africa: Cordia dentata
