Contents
Description
Elaeocarpus Sylvestris, commonly known as the Ceylon Olive or Indian Olive, is a tropical tree that belongs to the Elaeocarpaceae family. It is native to India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal and can grow up to 40 meters tall. Its leaves are evergreen, ovate, and glossy, while its flowers are small and white with a sweet fragrance. The fruit of the Elaeocarpus Sylvestris is a small, round, and blue drupe that contains a single seed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Elaeocarpaceae |
| Genus | Elaeocarpus |
Appearance
The Elaeocarpus Sylvestris is a beautiful tree with dense foliage and a symmetrical crown. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and ovate, measuring about 6-12 cm long and 3-6 cm wide. The tree produces small white flowers with five petals that are about 1 cm in diameter. The fruit is a small, blue drupe that measures about 1 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
The Elaeocarpus Sylvestris requires moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the tree regularly, especially during dry spells. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Elaeocarpus Sylvestris is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Elaeocarpus Sylvestris is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to scale insects and leaf spots. Here are some tips to prevent and treat common pests and diseases:
- Scale Insects: Use a horticultural oil spray to control scale insects.
- Leaf Spots: Remove and dispose of infected leaves to prevent the spread of disease.
Habitat
The Elaeocarpus Sylvestris is native to India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, where it grows in tropical and subtropical forests. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of climatic conditions, including high humidity, heat, and drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Elaeocarpus Sylvestris a fast-growing tree?
A: No, the Elaeocarpus Sylvestris is a slow-growing tree.
Q: Can the Elaeocarpus Sylvestris be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Elaeocarpus Sylvestris can be grown in containers, but it requires regular pruning to maintain its size.
Q: Does the Elaeocarpus Sylvestris produce edible fruit?
A: Yes, the fruit of the Elaeocarpus Sylvestris is edible, but it is not commonly consumed.
Q: Is the Elaeocarpus Sylvestris a good shade tree?
A: Yes, the Elaeocarpus Sylvestris is a good shade tree, thanks to its dense foliage.
Related Plants
- Elaeocarpus Angustifolius
- Elaeocarpus Decipiens
- Elaeocarpus Grandis
References
- Flora of Pakistan. (n.d.). Elaeocarpus sylvestris (Gaertn.) Wall. ex Mast. | Flora of Pakistan. Retrieved September 13, 2021, from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=5&taxon_id=200013968
- Elaeocarpus sylvestris – Plant Finder. (n.d.). Retrieved September 13, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287033&isprofile=1&basic=Elaeocarpus%20sylvestris
- Elaeocarpus sylvestris – Useful Tropical Plants. (n.d.). Retrieved September 13, 2021, from https://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Elaeocarpus+sylvestris
