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Description
Diospyros Lycioides, also known as African ebony, is a small tree or shrub native to Africa. It belongs to the family Ebenaceae and is known for its hard, heavy, and black wood. The tree produces small, fragrant, creamy-white flowers in late summer, followed by edible, yellow-orange fruits that are sweet and juicy. Its leaves are oval-shaped, glossy, and dark green, and it can grow up to 10 meters tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ebenales |
| Family | Ebenaceae |
| Genus | Diospyros |
Appearance
Diospyros Lycioides has a dense, rounded canopy and a smooth, greyish-brown bark. Its branches are thin and flexible, and its leaves are up to 10cm long and 5cm wide. The tree produces small, fragrant, creamy-white flowers in late summer, followed by edible, yellow-orange fruits that are sweet and juicy. Its wood is hard, heavy, and black, and is used for carving, furniture, and musical instruments.
Care Guide
To care for Diospyros Lycioides, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil and regular watering. It prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Fertilize the tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer and prune it in the winter to maintain its shape. It prefers full sun exposure, but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Diospyros Lycioides is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet. It can also be susceptible to scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Diospyros Lycioides is native to Africa, where it grows in savannas, woodlands, and scrublands. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Diospyros Lycioides be grown in a container?
A: Yes, it can be grown in a container, but it will need to be repotted every few years as it grows.
Q: Are the fruits of Diospyros Lycioides edible?
A: Yes, the fruits are edible and have a sweet, juicy flavor.
Q: How often should I water Diospyros Lycioides?
A: Water it regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Is Diospyros Lycioides a fast-growing tree?
A: No, it is a slow-growing tree that can take several years to reach its full height.
Related Plants
- Diospyros Kaki (Persimmon)
- Diospyros Virginiana (American Persimmon)
- Diospyros Texana (Texas Persimmon)
References
- “Diospyros Lycioides.” PlantZAfrica. http://pza.sanbi.org/diospyros-lycioides.
- “Diospyros Lycioides.” World Agroforestry. https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/speciesprofile.php?Spid=1567.
- “Diospyros Lycioides.” Useful Tropical Plants. http://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Diospyros+lycioides.
