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Description
Dovyalis Zeyheri, commonly known as the sour plum or wild apricot, is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the family Salicaceae. This plant is native to South Africa and grows in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. It is a popular plant for its delicious and tangy fruits that are enjoyed by both humans and animals. The fruit can be eaten fresh, dried, or used to make jams and jellies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Dovyalis |
Appearance
Dovyalis Zeyheri is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 5 meters tall. Its leaves are glossy, dark green, and have a toothed margin. The plant produces small, fragrant, white or pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The fruit is a small round or oblong shape, measuring about 2-3 cm in diameter. The skin of the fruit is smooth and yellow-orange in color, while the flesh is juicy and sour.
Care Guide
To care for Dovyalis Zeyheri, follow these steps:
Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. Water the plant deeply once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, usually from spring to summer. Use a slow-release fertilizer and apply according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.
Sunlight: The plant needs full sun to partial shade to thrive. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce fruit yield.
Hardiness Zones: Dovyalis Zeyheri is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. It can tolerate some frost, but prolonged periods of cold weather can damage the plant.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dovyalis Zeyheri is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to the following pests and diseases:
Pests: The plant can be attacked by aphids, mealybugs, and fruit flies. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.
Diseases: The plant can be affected by fungal diseases such as anthracnose and powdery mildew. Apply fungicide to control the diseases.
Habitat
Dovyalis Zeyheri is endemic to South Africa and grows naturally in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and woodlands. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dovyalis Zeyheri grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and make sure the container has drainage holes.
Q: When is the best time to harvest the fruit?
A: The fruit is usually harvested when it is fully ripe, which is usually in late summer or early fall.
Q: Is Dovyalis Zeyheri a fast-growing plant?
A: No, the plant is a slow grower and can take several years to reach its full height.
Q: Can Dovyalis Zeyheri be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Dovyalis Zeyheri:
- Dovyalis caffra
- Dovyalis rhamnoides
- Dovyalis longispina
- Dovyalis abyssinica
References
- “Dovyalis zeyheri (wild apricot).” Plantz Africa, 2021, www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/dovyalzey.htm.
- “Dovyalis Zeyheri.” World Agroforestry Centre, 2021, www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/speciesprofile.php?Spid=18359.
- “Dovyalis Zeyheri (Wild Apricot).” Backyard Gardener, 2021, www.backyardgardener.com/plantname/pda_5e5f-2.html.
