Contents
Description
Maerua Angolensis is a unique African plant that belongs to the Capparaceae family. It is native to Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The plant is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 6 meters tall. It has a grayish-brown bark and a dense crown of foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Capparaceae |
| Genus | Maerua |
Appearance
Maerua Angolensis has glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and up to 10 cm long. Its flowers are white, fragrant, and grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit of the plant is a woody capsule that contains seeds. The tree has a unique shape, and its dense foliage provides excellent shade.
Care Guide
Maerua Angolensis is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions. However, to ensure optimal growth and health, follow these care guidelines:- Water: The plant prefers moderate watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It can tolerate poor soil conditions.- Sunlight: Maerua Angolensis prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate high temperatures and direct sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Maerua Angolensis is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be affected by mealybugs, aphids, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if overwatered or grown in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Maerua Angolensis is native to Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. It grows in dry savannas, woodlands, and rocky hillsides. The plant can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions, making it an excellent choice for arid regions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Maerua Angolensis poisonous?
A: No, Maerua Angolensis is not poisonous to humans or animals.
Q: How long does it take for Maerua Angolensis to produce fruit?
A: It takes about 2 to 3 years for the plant to produce fruit.
Q: Can Maerua Angolensis grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it requires occasional repotting as it grows.
Q: What is the best time to prune Maerua Angolensis?
A: The plant can be pruned anytime, but the best time is after the fruiting season.
Related Plants
– Maerua Crassifolia- Maerua Edulis- Maerua Galpinii- Maerua Oblonga- Maerua Parvifolia
References
– “Maerua angolensis.” PlantZAfrica.com. Accessed May 28, 2021. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/maeruaangol.htm.- “Maerua angolensis.” World Agroforestry. Accessed May 28, 2021. https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/speciesprofile.php?Spid=1806.
