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Description
Diospyros Mespiliformis is a slow-growing, deciduous tree commonly found in Africa. It is also known as the African Ebony tree because of its dark, dense wood. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a spread of 10 meters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ebenaceae |
| Genus | Diospyros |
Appearance
The leaves of Diospyros Mespiliformis are simple, alternate, and oval-shaped, with a glossy dark green color. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and the fruit is a round, yellow-brown berry with a diameter of 2-3 cm. The wood is very dense, heavy, and durable, with a deep, almost black color.
Care Guide
Diospyros Mespiliformis is a hardy tree that can tolerate a range of growing conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the tree regularly in the growing season, but avoid overwatering it.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The tree grows best in full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Diospyros Mespiliformis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Diospyros Mespiliformis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Anthracnose: A fungal disease that causes leaf spots and cankers on the tree.
- Scale insects: Small insects that suck the sap from the tree, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves.
- Root rot: A fungal disease that affects the roots of the tree, causing wilting and yellowing of the leaves.
Habitat
Diospyros Mespiliformis is native to Africa and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, savannas, and dry forests. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate both drought and frost.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Diospyros Mespiliformis a fast-growing tree?
A: No, Diospyros Mespiliformis is a slow-growing tree.
Q: Can Diospyros Mespiliformis be grown in a container?
A: No, Diospyros Mespiliformis is a large tree that requires a lot of space to grow.
Q: Does Diospyros Mespiliformis produce edible fruit?
A: Yes, the fruit of Diospyros Mespiliformis is edible, but it is not commonly consumed.
Q: Is Diospyros Mespiliformis a good shade tree?
A: Yes, Diospyros Mespiliformis can provide good shade once it reaches maturity.
Related Plants
- Diospyros kaki
- Diospyros virginiana
- Diospyros ebenum
References
- Plants of Southern Africa: an annotated checklist. Govaerts, R., et al. 2013.
- Flora of Zimbabwe: Species information: Diospyros mespiliformis. Burke, J. 2012.
- The Timber Trees of Tanzania: a guide to identification, properties, and utilization. Hamilton, A.C. 1984.
