Contents
Description
Dovyalis is a genus of shrubs and small trees native to Africa and Asia. The plants are known for their edible fruits, which resemble small apricots and have a sweet and tangy taste. The fruit is commonly used to make jam, jelly, and juice.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Dovyalis |
Appearance
Dovyalis plants have small, glossy, dark green leaves and produce small, yellow or orange fruits. The fruits are oval-shaped and measure about 2-3cm in length. They have a thin, edible skin and contain several small seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Dovyalis plants prefer moderate watering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
Fertilization: Fertilize Dovyalis plants once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Dovyalis plants prefer well-draining soil. Use a mix of sand, perlite and peat moss to create a suitable growing medium.
Sunlight: Dovyalis plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade but will produce fewer fruits.
Hardiness Zones: Dovyalis plants are hardy in zones 9-11. They can be grown in containers in colder climates and brought indoors during the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dovyalis plants are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases including:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause distortion and yellowing of the leaves.
- Spider Mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and bronzing of the leaves.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves.
- Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Habitat
Dovyalis plants are native to Africa and Asia and can be found in a variety of habitats including savannas, woodlands, and forests. They can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions but prefer well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dovyalis plants be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Dovyalis plants can be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter in colder climates.
Q: How often should Dovyalis plants be fertilized?
A: Dovyalis plants should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Dovyalis plants?
A: Dovyalis plants are hardy in zones 9-11.
Q: What is the best type of soil for Dovyalis plants?
A: Dovyalis plants prefer well-draining soil. Use a mix of sand, perlite and peat moss to create a suitable growing medium.
Related Plants
- Salix (Willow)
- Populus (Poplar)
- Alnus (Alder)
References
- “Dovyalis.” World Flora Online. Accessed September 2021. https://www.worldfloraonline.org/taxon/wfo-4000003500.
- “Dovyalis.” The Plant List. Accessed September 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/browse/A/Salicaceae/Dovyalis/.
- “Dovyalis hebecarpa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287715&isprofile=0&basic=Dovyalis.
