Contents
Description
Gymnanthera Oblonga, also known as the African buttonwood, is a unique plant species that is native to sub-Saharan Africa. The plant belongs to the family Rubiaceae and is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that can grow up to 10 meters in height. This plant is highly valued for its medicinal properties and is used to treat various diseases such as malaria, fever, and stomach ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Gymnanthera |
Appearance
Gymnanthera Oblonga has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden. The plant has a dense crown of leaves and can grow up to 10 meters in height. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped, measuring about 5 cm long and 2.5 cm wide. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown and rough, with deep fissures. The flowers of Gymnanthera Oblonga are small and white, and they bloom in clusters from March to May. The fruit of the plant is a small berry that is green when young and turns red when mature.
Care Guide
Gymnanthera Oblonga is an easy-to-care plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips to help you grow this plant:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.- Soil: The plant grows well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Gymnanthera Oblonga prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gymnanthera Oblonga is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to leaf spot and root rot if the plant is overwatered. Insects such as mealybugs and spider mites may also infest the plant. To prevent these issues, ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that it is regularly inspected for signs of infestation.
Habitat
Gymnanthera Oblonga is native to sub-Saharan Africa and can be found in the savanna and woodland areas. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Gymnanthera Oblonga a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Gymnanthera Oblonga is highly valued for its medicinal properties and is used to treat various diseases such as malaria, fever, and stomach ailments.
Q: What is the best soil type for Gymnanthera Oblonga?
A: Gymnanthera Oblonga grows well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Gymnanthera Oblonga?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Q: Is Gymnanthera Oblonga resistant to pests and diseases?
A: Gymnanthera Oblonga is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to leaf spot and root rot if the plant is overwatered.
Related Plants
– Gymnanthera Gracilis- Gymnanthera Stenophylla- Gymnanthera Odorata- Gymnanthera Latifolia
References
– “Gymnanthera Oblonga.” Useful Tropical Plants. Accessed 27 August 2021. <https://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Gymnanthera+oblonga>.- “Gymnanthera Oblonga.” World Agroforestry. Accessed 27 August 2021. <https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/AFTPDFS/Gymnanthera_oblonga.pdf>.
