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Description
Melicytus Macrophyllus, also known as the large-leaved mahoe or New Zealand mahoe, is a species of flowering plant in the family Violaceae. It is native to New Zealand and can grow up to 10 meters tall. The plant has elliptic leaves with a glossy green color, and its flowers are small and white or cream-colored. The fruit produced by Melicytus Macrophyllus is a small berry that is purple-black when ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Violaceae |
| Genus | Melicytus |
Appearance
Melicytus Macrophyllus is a large shrub or small tree that can grow up to 10 meters tall. It has elliptic leaves that are 7-12 cm long and 3-5 cm wide, with a glossy green color. The plant produces small white or cream-colored flowers in clusters, which are followed by small purple-black berries. The bark of the plant is smooth and grayish-brown in color.
Care Guide
Melicytus Macrophyllus can be grown in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate both acidic and alkaline soils. It requires regular watering during the growing season, but the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. The plant can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer months.
Melicytus Macrophyllus prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of temperatures. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like many plants, Melicytus Macrophyllus can be susceptible to a range of pests and diseases. Some common pests include aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Some common diseases include leaf spot and powdery mildew, which can be controlled with fungicides.
Habitat
Melicytus Macrophyllus is native to New Zealand and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, scrublands, and along stream banks. It is also commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Melicytus Macrophyllus?
A: Melicytus Macrophyllus is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Q: What kind of soil does Melicytus Macrophyllus prefer?
A: Melicytus Macrophyllus can be grown in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant prefers well-draining soil.
Q: What are some common pests that can affect Melicytus Macrophyllus?
A: Some common pests include aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites.
Q: What is the fruit produced by Melicytus Macrophyllus?
A: The fruit produced by Melicytus Macrophyllus is a small berry that is purple-black when ripe.
Related Plants
- Melicytus ramiflorus
- Melicytus obovatus
- Melicytus lanceolatus
References
- “Melicytus Macrophyllus.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/melicytus-macrophyllus/
- “Melicytus Macrophyllus.” Plants of the World Online. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:371054-1
