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Description
Melicytus Chathamicus, also known as the Chatham Island Mahoe, is a small tree or shrub that is native to the Chatham Islands of New Zealand. It belongs to the family Violaceae and can grow up to 5 meters tall. The leaves are glossy and dark green, and the small flowers are white or pink in color. The tree produces small, purple-black berries that are edible but not commonly consumed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Violales |
| Family | Violaceae |
| Genus | Melicytus |
Appearance
The Melicytus Chathamicus has glossy, dark green leaves that are 2-6 cm long and 1-4 cm wide. The small flowers are white or pink in color and are about 5 mm in diameter. The tree produces small, purple-black berries that are about 6 mm in diameter. The tree or shrub can grow up to 5 meters tall.
Care Guide
The Melicytus Chathamicus is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of conditions. It grows best in well-draining soil and requires moderate watering. The plant does not require fertilization, but can benefit from a light application of slow-release fertilizer in the spring. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C. It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Melicytus Chathamicus is generally a healthy plant and is not often affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if it is planted in poorly-draining soil. Spider mites and aphids can also be a problem, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Melicytus Chathamicus is native to the Chatham Islands of New Zealand, where it grows in forested areas and along streams. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of conditions, including wind and salt spray.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the berries of the Melicytus Chathamicus be consumed?
A: Yes, the berries are edible but are not commonly consumed.
Q: What is the preferred growing environment for the Melicytus Chathamicus?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Melicytus Chathamicus?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.
Q: What pests and diseases can affect the Melicytus Chathamicus?
A: The plant can be susceptible to root rot, spider mites, and aphids.
Related Plants
- Melicytus ramiflorus
- Melicytus lanceolatus
- Melicytus crassifolius
References
- Landcare Research. (n.d.). Melicytus Chathamicus. Retrieved from https://nzflora.landcareresearch.co.nz/Species/Melicytus-chathamicus
- Bach, R. (2011). Native plants of the Chatham Islands. Wellington, New Zealand: Te Papa Press.
- Moore, L. B., & Edgar, E. (1970). Flora of New Zealand: Volume II. Wellington, New Zealand: Government Printer.
