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Description
Diospyros Lotus, also known as Date Plum, is a deciduous tree native to Asia and Europe. It belongs to the family Ebenaceae and is known for its fruit, which resembles a small plum and is edible when fully ripe. The tree can grow up to 10 meters in height and has a spreading crown. Its bark is dark gray and rough, and its leaves are oval-shaped with a glossy green surface. The tree produces greenish-white flowers in late spring, which are followed by the fruit in late summer or early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ebanales |
| Family | Ebenaceae |
| Genus | Diospyros |
Appearance
The Diospyros Lotus tree has a rounded shape and can grow up to 10 meters in height. Its leaves are oval-shaped and glossy green, with a length of 5-10 cm and width of 2-5 cm. The tree produces greenish-white flowers in late spring, which are followed by the fruit in late summer or early fall. The fruit is small and round, with a diameter of 2-4 cm, and has a reddish-brown color when ripe. The fruit is sweet and edible when fully ripe, with a taste similar to that of a date or plum.
Care Guide
The Diospyros Lotus tree prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Fertilization is recommended in the early spring and summer, using a balanced fertilizer. The tree can tolerate a range of soil pH levels and is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Diospyros Lotus tree is susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including aphids, scale insects, spider mites, and leaf spot. To prevent these problems, it is recommended to keep the tree well-watered and fertilized, and to prune any infected branches or leaves. It is also important to maintain good air circulation around the tree to prevent fungal diseases.
Habitat
The Diospyros Lotus tree is native to Asia and Europe and is commonly found in temperate regions. It grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, and open fields. The tree prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the fruit of the Diospyros Lotus tree edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is sweet and edible when fully ripe.
Q: What pests and diseases are common to the Diospyros Lotus tree?
A: The tree is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, spider mites, and leaf spot.
Q: What hardiness zones is the Diospyros Lotus tree suitable for?
A: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Q: How tall can the Diospyros Lotus tree grow?
A: The tree can grow up to 10 meters in height.
Related Plants
- Diospyros kaki
- Diospyros virginiana
- Diospyros texana
References
- “Diospyros lotus”, Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c780.
- “Date Plum”, University of Florida, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/st330.
