Contents
Description
Elaeocarpus Serratus, commonly known as the Ceylon Olive, is a flowering plant species that is native to Sri Lanka and India. It belongs to the Elaeocarpaceae family and is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 20 meters in height. The tree has a dense and spreading crown with a smooth grey bark that has vertical fissures.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Elaeocarpaceae |
| Genus | Elaeocarpus |
Appearance
The leaves of the Elaeocarpus Serratus are simple, alternate, and have a length of 8-16 cm. They are elliptic and have a pointed tip. The tree produces beautiful, white, and fragrant flowers that bloom in clusters. The fruit of the Ceylon Olive is a small, round, and green drupe that contains a single seed.
Care Guide
The Elaeocarpus Serratus tree requires regular watering during its growing season. Fertilization is needed during the spring and summer months. Well-draining soil is ideal for this plant, and it should be exposed to full sunlight. The hardiness zones for this tree are 10 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Ceylon Olive is susceptible to pests such as mealybugs and scale insects. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap. The tree is also prone to diseases such as leaf spot, which can be treated with a fungicide spray.
Habitat
The Elaeocarpus Serratus tree is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. It grows in well-drained soil and can tolerate both acidic and alkaline soil. The tree also prefers a humid climate and is often found near rivers and water sources.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Elaeocarpus Serratus tree drought-resistant?
A: No, the Ceylon Olive tree requires regular watering during its growing season.
Q: What is the ideal hardiness zone for the Elaeocarpus Serratus tree?
A: The hardiness zones for this tree are 10 to 11.
Q: What is the common name of the Elaeocarpus Serratus tree?
A: The common name of this tree is the Ceylon Olive.
Q: What is the ideal soil type for the Elaeocarpus Serratus tree?
A: Well-draining soil is ideal for this plant, and it should be exposed to full sunlight.
Related Plants
- Elaeocarpus Blumei
- Elaeocarpus Decipiens
- Elaeocarpus Grandis
- Elaeocarpus Munroi
References
- “Elaeocarpus Serratus (Linn. f.) Kosterm”. Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 2021-07-30.
- “Elaeocarpus Serratus”. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved 2021-07-30.
- “Ceylon Olive”. Flora of Sri Lanka. Retrieved 2021-07-30.
