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Description
Melicytus Obovatus, also known as the coastal mahoe, is a species of flowering plant in the family Violaceae. The plant is native to New Zealand and can be found in coastal and lowland forests, as well as shrublands and wetlands. The coastal mahoe is a small to medium-sized tree, reaching up to 10 meters in height, with a trunk diameter of up to 30cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Violales |
| Family | Violaceae |
| Genus | Melicytus |
Appearance
The coastal mahoe has glossy, oval-shaped leaves that grow up to 10cm long and 5cm wide. The leaves are a dark green color and have a smooth texture. The plant produces small, white flowers that bloom in spring and summer. The fruit is a small, black drupe that grows up to 6mm in diameter. The bark of the coastal mahoe is smooth and grayish-brown in color.
Care Guide
The coastal mahoe prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering during the growing season. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer. The coastal mahoe is hardy to USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The coastal mahoe is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-watered and avoid over-fertilization. If pests or diseases are present, treat with an insecticide or fungicide according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Habitat
The coastal mahoe is native to New Zealand and can be found in coastal and lowland forests, as well as shrublands and wetlands. The plant prefers moist soils and is often found near streams and rivers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the coastal mahoe be grown indoors?
A: While the coastal mahoe can be grown indoors, it prefers to be outdoors in full sun to partial shade.
Q: How often should I fertilize my coastal mahoe?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer.
Q: Is the coastal mahoe hardy?
A: The coastal mahoe is hardy to USDA zones 9 to 11.
Q: Can the coastal mahoe tolerate drought?
A: The coastal mahoe prefers moist soils and may not tolerate extended periods of drought.
Related Plants
- Melicytus ramiflorus
- Melicytus lanceolatus
- Melicytus chathamicus
References
- “Melicytus obovatus.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/melicytus-obovatus/
- “Melicytus obovatus.” Plants of the World Online. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:791776-1
- “Melicytus obovatus.” Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. https://www.rbge.org.uk/plants/16308/melicytus-obovatus/
